Published: Sept. 18, 2014

Contact: Emerson Lamm, Detective 303-492-4554 / emerson.lamm@colorado.edu

The University of Colorado Boulder Police Department is seeking help from the public in identifying a male involved in an attempt to break into the ATM at the Center for Community.

At the beggining of summer on May 29, 2013 at 2:30 a.m. the suspect is recorded by an ATM video approaching in protective clothing. He sprays an acidic solution on the ATM. He returns later to check the acid’s progress. He returns again in the early morning to attempt to steal cash from the machine. He was unsuccessful in his efforts to enter the ATM. Police were alerted to the problem with the machine a few days later when a customer suffered chemical burns when they attempted to use the machine. The student suffering from chemical burns did not seek medical treatment.

Detectives were able to locate a video of the suspect as he visited the machine on May 29th. He is shown in a video wearing his protective clothing. The second video shows his returning to the machine without the protective clothing. A still photograph shows the suspect at the ATM. The videos can be seen on the CU Boulder Police YouTube channel.

During one visit to the ATM, the suspect can be seen hiding. It appears the suspect heard something that startled him.

“I am concerned what the suspect would have done to anyone who surprised him during his attempt to break into the ATM,” said Sgt. Michael Lowry. “The suspect caused significant damage to the ATM and we are hopeful the public will assist us in identifying him.”

The machine was damaged beyond repair. The replacement cost is estimated at $50,000. If arrested, the suspect would face felony charges of Criminal Mischief and Attempted Burglary. Anyone using an ATM should always be aware of their surroundings. If you see anything suspicious, leave the area and report the incident to the local police. 

Anyone with information concerning the identity of the suspect is asked to call Detective Sergeant Michael Lowry at (303) 492-8168. Those who have information on these crimes but wish to remain anonymous may contact the Northern Colorado Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or 1-800-444-3776. Tips can also be submitted via the Crime Stoppers website. Those submitting tips through Crime Stoppers that lead to the arrest and filing of charges on a suspect may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 from Crime Stoppers.