Flathead sees recent rash of burglaries to homes, businesses

By ALEX STRICKLAND - Bigfork Eagle

Last week's burglary at Techno Joe's in Bigfork was just one of many such instances happening around the Flathead in recent weeks.

Detective Kirby Adams with the Flathead County Sheriff's Office said there have been nine residential burglaries in the last month valley wide and almost half a dozen commercial, including a break in at Grizzly Jack's Saloon and Casino on Nov. 14.

The suspects were apparently thwarted in that attempt, Adams said, because only some damage was done to the facility as the burglars attempted to gain entry.

The story was different at Techno Joe's, where gaming equipment and inventory was taken to the tune of $40,000, according to owner Joe Olson.

Olson re-opened his store this week claiming to be "back and bigger than ever," after being forced to do a quick remodel because of damages incurred by the burglars.

Adams said a spate of similar crimes in nearby Lincoln County have prompted detectives from the two counties to work together in an effort to find those who are accountable.

"Right now we're just following leads and we're not sure if there's a connection," Adams said.

Home and business owners are encouraged to lock doors and windows and talk to neighbors about keeping an eye out for suspicious activity, Adams said. Anyone who sees such activity should immediately contact the Sheriff's Department.