Posted
After the December 24, 2023, burglary of the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals, investigators from the Washington County Sheriff's Office pursued leads spanning several Oregon counties and into Vancouver, Washington. Investigators discovered items believed to be stolen Rice Museum exhibits at a precious metals buyer in the Salem area, ultimately leading to the burglar's discovery.
On May 28, 2024, a Washington County Grand Jury indicted 33-year-old Vincent Charles Roberts for the following charges stemming from the burglary at the museum.
- Burglary in the second degree
- Criminal mischief in the first degree
- Aggravated theft in the first degree
- Theft in the first degree
A warrant was issued for Roberts's arrest. The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office located Roberts, who is known to frequent locations in their jurisdiction and took him into custody on June 27, 2024.
Many historical gold display items have not been recovered, and the investigation is ongoing. If you have information about this investigation, the Sheriff’s Office urges you to contact investigators at 503-846-2700.
Media Release: Detectives Investigate Major Theft at Local Museum
On Sunday, December 24, 2023, at 2:21 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a break-in alarm at the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals at 26385 NW Groveland Drive in unincorporated Washington County.
Responding deputies found a broken window leading into the building and footprints heading south from the museum. Deputies immediately set up containment in the area and attempted a K9 track, but the individual managed to escape.
Deputies searched the museum with the help of museum staff, where they discovered a significant theft from a large display case containing numerous gold items. The total value of the missing items is not being reported at this time.
Deputies reviewed the museum’s security footage, and the suspect appears to be an average-built adult white male wearing jeans and a jacket.
The case is now being investigated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit detectives. If you, or someone you know, have any information, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (503) 846-2700.
On Sunday, December 24, 2023, at 2:21 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a break-in alarm at the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals at 26385 NW Groveland Drive in unincorporated Washington County.
Responding deputies found a broken window leading into the building and footprints heading south from the museum. Deputies immediately set up containment in the area and attempted a K9 track, but the individual managed to escape.
Deputies searched the museum with the help of museum staff, where they discovered a significant theft from a large display case containing numerous gold items. The total value of the missing items is not being reported at this time.
Deputies reviewed the museum’s security footage, and the suspect appears to be an average-built adult white male wearing jeans and a jacket.
The case is now being investigated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit detectives. If you, or someone you know, have any information, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (503) 846-2700.
Contact
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
WCSO Public Information Officer
|
PIO
|