GEORGIA COMPUTERS STOLEN http://www.wsbtv.com/news/26957149/detail.html

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2 Dozen Computers Stolen From School

School Needs Help Replacing Stolen Computers

Posted: 4:51 pm EST February 22, 2011Updated: 5:03 pm EST February 22, 2011

ROSWELL, Ga. -- A North Fulton County charter school is beefing up security after burglars stole nearly two dozen computers.

The thefts happened this month at Fulton Sunshine Academy in Roswell, which has only been open about six months.

"‘We saw the windows smashed, glass everywhere from across the entire length of the room," said assistant principal Annette Higgins. "I was sad, the kids were sad, the teachers were sad. It was just really sad."

Higgins told Channel 2's Mike Petchenik she believes the burglars backed up to the school, which operates out of an office park, smashed a plate glass window, then stole 21 of the the lab's 24 computers.

"I understand criminals steal, but to steal from children, that was hard," said Higgins.

Higgins told Petchenik that replacing the computers has been tough because Fulton Sunshine is a start-up charter School without deep pockets, so parents and some local businesses have chipped in to provide some used computers. She said it's been difficult because the computers all have different operating systems, and some aren't internet-ready.

“At least now we’re able to get the computer lab up and running, but it’s challenging for the computer teacher to function with so many different computers," she said.

Petchenik saw a crew installing security cameras at the school Tuesday. Higgins said the school has already wired the lab with an alarm system. A Roswell Police Department spokesman e-mailed Petchenik stating investigators were still tracking down potential leads.

Higgins said she believes the thieves knew exactly where to find the computers. She's hoping someone will come forward to help replace the stolen ones.

"It was really scary for the kids," she said.

Anyone interested in donating new computers to the school can contact Higgins at (770) 410-1500.