An unidentified intruder burglarized multiple rooms in Silsby Hall Sunday evening, stealing projectors, computers and monitors from the government seminar room and from "smart" classrooms used by several departments.
At least four rooms in the building were robbed, according to Hanover Police Chief Nick Giaccone, who noted that an investigation to resolve the case is underway.
The monetary loss of the stolen property is believed to top $25,000, according to Hanover Police.
Safety and Security alerted Hanover Police early Monday morning after Facilities, Operations and Management staff unlocking Silsby discovered the missing equipment. Silsby, in addition to functioning as an academic space for the government, education, sociology and economics departments, is used by several organizations and groups unaffiliated with the College.
"It is believed that the building, along with some of the rooms inside, was left unsecured in order to allow people access for meetings," Hanover Police officials said.
Giaccone added that no signs of forcible entry were found.
The timing of the thefts -- the night before the start of Winter term classes -- compounded their effects on professors using the affected classrooms.
"It was obvious that the color overhead projector was missing," said Professor Chris Hawblitzel of the computer science department, who teaches in room 113 during the 12 timeslot. "[Facilities Operations and Management] had already removed the cart that contains the computer."
Others noted that while a criminal investigation proceeds, accommodations must be made so that classes in Silsby can function normally.
"The department's interest is having temporary equipment in place as soon as possible," government department chair Michael Mastanduno said.
As smart classrooms -- equipped with advanced and expensive technology -- are assigned by the College Registrar and not owned by specific departments, the government department will not incur the cost of replacement machines in the classrooms its professors use, he added. "I'm fairly certain it's a broader budget item."
Safety and Security declined to comment for this article.
