Well over a quarter of a million dollars worth of cash, collectibles and firearms have been stolen from a rural home south of Cody in what one law enforcement official is calling the largest Park County theft in 30 years.
The Park County Sheriff’s Office announced the burglary Tuedsay, although the it was reported Feb. 28.
Because of the magnitude of the theft, agents of the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation were immediately asked to assist in the investigation.
“The theft is believed to be a very deliberate and targeted burglary,” said Park County Sheriff Scott Steward. “For these reasons, and to not jeopardize the investigation, we chose not to go public with the information as we did not feel there was a risk of further burglaries.”
“This is by far the largest theft in my 30 years with the Park County Sheriff’s Office,” Steward said.
The burglary is believed to have occurred between late January and the end of February and items stolen included more than 90 firearms, many of them very valuable, according to a press release from the Department.
Sometime between late January and the end of February, two Abbiatico & Salvinelli engraved shotguns worth more than $10,000 each; three Fratelli Poli, hand engraved, side by side shotguns worth in excess of $15,000 each; and numerous other shotguns worth over $5,000 each were stolen. Additionally, approximately ten AR15 and M4 type weapons were taken, th release said.
Other items stolen were a large quantity of gold and silver eagle coins worth well over $60,000, a very large amount of cash estimated at more than $200,000, a Rolex watch, range finders, thermal and night vision scopes, spotting scopes, crossbows and much more.
The victim is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension and prosecution of those involved – but there’s a time limit. The reward offer is only valid until July 1, 2021.
Any person with information about the theft is asked to call the Park County Sheriff’s Office and speak with Investigator Jed Ehlers.