MISSOURI COMPUTERS STOLEN http://www.connectmidmissouri.com/news/story.aspx?id=888961#.UXiMvJPNc-E

Passwords protected stolen computers

by Teresa Snow

A Columbia man was charged with a felony stealing for allegedly taking laptops, desktop computers and other computer equipment from a Columbia hospital.

Ellis Fischel Cancer Center recently moved from its location on Business Loop 70 in Columbia to the new patient tower by University Hospital on the MU campus.

MU Police Captain Brian Weimer said Victor Menzel is accused of taking two boxes full of computers and equipment including laptops, mice and keyboards from the former Ellis location. Authorities are still taking an inventory of it all. Weimer said he's not sure yet if the computers were headed for surplus or to the new facility.

Weimer said Menzel sought the help of his son to find a password for the computers. That man sought the help of another person, who later reported the equipment stolen.

Weimer said there's no evidence any personal information was compromised, and the exact value of the equipment has not been determined. Menzel was charged with one count of stealing/theft valued at more than $500, but less than $25,000. He posted bond last Friday, three days after being arrested. Menzel is scheduled for another court appearance May 7. 

Updated: 04.24.2013 at 9:10 AM