MICHIGAN (Update) STOLEN COMPUTERS STILL MISSING FROM BHK BHK laptops still missing:
BHK laptops still missing

By KAYLA GAHAGAN, DMG Writer

HOUGHTON — The BHK Head Start is in the process of replacing more than a dozen laptops that were stolen Sunday in a break-in, said Executive Director Rod Liimatainen.

“None of the desktops were stolen and we use them mainly for data storage and main business,” he said. “ ... We are in full operation. It’s a disappointment and an inconvenience, but it won’t affect our operations.”

The Head Start building, located on Park Avenue, was broken into through three doors and 15 laptops were taken, said Chief Ralph Raffaelli. Liimatainen noted that 14 laptops and one case were stolen.

Liimatainen said the items stolen are worth an estimated $25,000. BHK’s insurance deductible is $2,500.

“Most of the loss will be covered,” he said.

Liimatainen said a small amount of cash, less than $100, was also taken. He said it was stolen from money collected for a raffle they were having to raise money."

The break-in reminds him of a similar larceny three or four years ago.

Thieves broke two doors and stole three computers. They were never recovered, he said.

“That was not solved,” he said. “I hope this time it will be different.”

Liimatainen said the most important thing is that the thief who took the computers will not be able to access any private information.

“We were able to verify that none of the laptops contained any family or child information or confidential information,” he said. “We have a server and an Internet data storage, so the person would need to have the password to get into the system. It is extremely unlikely that someone would be able to do that, virtually impossible.”

Raffaelli said they are still investigating.

“We don’t have any leads that I know of,” he said.

Liimatainen said he has a hard time believing computers will be found.

“Frankly, I’m not too optimistic,” he said. “I certainly hope so and I hope people will report any unusual number of laptops being available, or if they hear any rumors they’ll report it to the police,” Liimatainen continued.

Anyone with information can call the Houghton City Police Department at 487-5912.