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Dallas City, IL – A nationally known spree-criminal may be on the loose in west central Illinois.
This week, police in Hancock County recovered a vehicle they believe was stolen by the "Barefoot Bandit," whose real name is Colton Harris Moore. The 19-year-old Moore escaped from a juvenile detention facility in Washington state two years ago and has been sought by authorities across the country ever since.
Moore is described as a white male, about 6'5" with very short or buzzed hair. He'd likely be carrying a backpack.
Hancock County Sheriff John Jefferson says authorities were tipped off to an abandoned vehicle stuck in a creek crossing in the Happy Hollow area, which is between Dallas City and Niota.
"[Police] have been tracking this guy on this crime spree, it's been like a two-million dollar crime spree, through the Dakotas, Nebraska, and on through Iowa," says Jefferson. "[With] everything else that's fallen into place, they're 100% convinced it's him."
Jefferson says Moore allegedly stole a 2010 Chevy HHR from the Ottumwa City Works department Tuesday night. It was found in the creek Wednesday morning.
Moore is said to be responsible for hundreds of residential burglaries across the country. He's also known for stealing high value items such as cars, boats and planes.
Jefferson says his department has been in contact with airports throughout the region, and private airstrip owners.
"He likes to steal Cessna 172's, and Cirrus SR-22's," says Jefferson. "We're trying to get everyone on alert for this, make sure they've got their keys out of their plane, and also keys out of their vehicles. He likes to steal vehicles and also watercraft. He's a very accomplished burglar."
Jefferson says no similar crime has been reported since the Chevy was found earlier this week, but law enforcement agencies around the region are prepared. He says it's not unusual for Moore to go a few days to a few weeks between crimes.
"If [the public] does see this man, or someone that fits his description, just be very cautious around him. Call police, don't confront him."
Moore is known for sneaking into homes where no one is home to eat their food, shower and do laundry. He's regarded as the "Barefoot Bandit" because he's committed several burglaries without wearing shoes or socks.