PRESS  RELEASE

    Police Department City of Astoria

 TYPE OF INCIDENT:         Theft of old Astoria Column steps

 DATE/TIME:                         09/16/2009

 RELEASED BY:                  Eric Halverson, Sergeant

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 
On 09/16/2009 The Astoria Police Department began an investigation into the theft of cast iron steps that were removed from the Astoria Column recently for replacement. 

 The steps were being stored at the Astoria Public Works yard.  Several stairs were cut off a section of the staircase.  The steps have an estimated weight of 130 pounds and required the use of a torch to cut them loose.  The estimated scrap value of the stairs is approximately $70.00, however the historic and sentimental value of the stairs is quite high. 

 The Astoria Police Department is seeking information leading to the recovery of the steps and prosecution of the suspects.  “This was a calculated move on the part of the suspect (s) requiring time, knowledge and specialized equipment to accomplish” said Sgt. Halverson.  Anyone with information is requested to contact the Astoria Police Department at (503) 325-4411.     

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