Barry County residents on edge as thieves strike multiple homes

BARRY COUNTY, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Someone in Barry County is breaking into homes and going straight for the jewelry.

Most of the incidents are taking place in Hastings Township, Hope Township and Castleton Township, all of which surround the City of Hastings.

The Barry County Sheriff's Office is looking into perhaps a dozen incidents, and the Michigan State Police have over 20 cases on hand. Officials with the MSP told Newschannel 3 that there may have been one or two more break-ins late Wednesday.

The rash of break-ins have many people in Barry County on edge.

"Old 12 gauge might have to do some work," said Sam Lehman.

Lehman's a welcoming kind of guy, but he's been a little less welcoming since his neighbors have fallen victim to burglars.

"It's scary, you know they ain't taking anything but jewelry and money," said Lehman.

"I don't like it," said Raymond Blocher, who fell victim to the crime spree, "I hope I don't catch 'em doing it here because I'll probably be in a lot of trouble if I do."

Blocher's home was broken into over the summer, that crime was the first in the 48 years he's lived on his farm. Now, he's got everything on lock-down. He's gone so far as to put stuff into the windows so people can't see inside. Blocher says it's not the lifestyle he wants, but he's living with the reality that thieves could strike again.

"I wouldn't shoot at them to kill them, but they might have some awful sore legs," said Blocher.

The region of Barry County where the crimes have taken place is remote, with the nearest neighbor sometimes three quarters of a mile away. Blocher suspects the remoteness is why thieves are striking in the area, but he says he's trying to stay ready for anything.

"It makes you mad, I mean I'd help anybody that comes to the door, but if I catch somebody stealing, that's a different thing," said Blocher.