Belle Chasse refinery ex-employee booked with stealing company computers after 44 reported missing
A former employee of the Phillips 66 Alliance Refinery is accused of stealing portable computers from the plant to support a drug habit and help a relative with medical bills, thePlaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office said Monday. Michael Ramsey, 52, of New Orleans was booked with theft valued at more than $500.

Ramsey could not remember how many computers he took. But authorities said 44 Dell Latitude 6430U computers were reported stolen Aug. 21 and only two have been recovered. The loot was valued at $50,380.

Five days after the computers were reported stolen, detectives learned that Ramsey had sold one to a Metairie pawn shop. They said they questioned him Sept. 4 and that he admitted taking at least 10. Ramsey allegedly told authorities he had a cocaine addiction and was helping pay a family member's medical bills

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After his arrest, he was released on $20,000 bond.

The Sheriff's Office sought the public's help in recovering the other 42 missing computers. Authorities stressed that criminal charges will not be filed against anyone returning one.

Anyone with information may call Lt. Brett Ricks at 504.564.2525 or 504.297.5273.

Computer and DATA Theft Victims