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BASTROP — Sheriff’s deputies are on the lookout for the burglars who looted a nonprofit training academy for first responders, officials said.
The thieves broke into the Texas Public Safety Training Academy, 298 Industrial Blvd., during a 20-hour window from 6:30 p.m. June 30 to 2:30 p.m. July 1, investigators said.
No one was in the building at the time, according to officials.
Air-conditioning units on the outside of two portable buildings are missing, copper was lifted and the break-in itself caused an estimated $20,000 to $30,000 in damages, officials said.
“From what we can gather, they used a truck to take the AC units, and they defeated an anti-theft plate to … go into both buildings to steal copper,” said Nicholas Teague, the academy’s EMS program director and fire chief. “They caused $20,000 to $30,000 worth of damage for $2,000 worth of scrap metal.”
Teague, who also is a peace officer, suspects narcotics may have been the motive behind the intrusion.
“We anticipate these individuals committed these crimes to satisfy a drug habit,” he said.
The air-conditioning units were connected to portable buildings purchased from the Austin Independent School District. “We needed more room to conduct classes,” Teague said. “We now have to operate in a smaller footprint and have larger classes. We would have three large classrooms, but we’re getting creative with the schedule and continuing our mission despite the adversity.”
The academy started in October 2018 and will celebrate seven years Oct. 9.
The facility is a Texas Workforce Commission- exempt post-secondary instructional institution. It offers 10week courses in emergency medical services and firefighting, and two-week courses in security.
“About 80% of the training we do is provided through grants,” Teague said. “We’re working on donations and reallocating funds to get back in operation.”
Those wishing to donate can call 737-881-8045.
To offer tips that could lead to an arrest or indictment in the case, contact the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office at 512303-1080.
“We’re confident that these individuals will get caught,” Teague said.
