WHEN: Approximately between January 12-17, 2011
WHERE: Rancho San Rafael Park – Reno, Nevada
SUSPECT/S: No Suspect Information
CONTACT: Deputy Armando Avina – PIO
911 Parr Blvd Reno, NV 89512
Office 328-6370, Cell 771-8252, After Hours Pager 861-7208
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office seeks help from the community in identifying the persons responsible for stealing five bronze plaques off The National Monument to the Basque Sheepherders, located within the Rancho San Rafael Park.
The Sheriff’s Office received the report on January 19, 2011 and it was forwarded to the Detective Division. The initial report included the possibility that the crime occurred between January 12-17th. The estimated value of those five pieces has not been determined and the Sheriff’s Office recognizes these plaques as “priceless” due to their historical significance.
Sheriff Mike Haley states, “It’s disastrous! To believe there are people amongst us who are responsible for this vandalism really disturbs me. It’s unreasonable to think that this crime was committed by just one person. The national monument honors all Basque ancestors who came here as sheepherders. It was built for the public to view and appreciate, not to be ruined. I personally look for your help in solving this crime and recovering these historic plaques.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at 328-3320. Secret Witness, 322-4900, has offered a reward for information leading to an arrest.
