PHIPPSBURG — Someone stole several cans containing gasoline, expensive boat electronics and rope during a burglary that probably happened “in the wee hours” this morning, Police Chief John Skroski said.
Skroski said that the thefts occurred on seven boats at the private wharf off Fort Popham. Whoever committed the crime also broke the reinforced wooden railing that leads to the gangway, he said.
The chief said he patrolled the area at around 10 p.m. Tuesday, and everything was quiet.
“They picked if off in the middle of the night,” Skroski said. “Someone reported hearing a loud vehicle at around 3 in the morning.”
Most of the stolen gas cans were 5-to-6 gallons, Skroski said. A depth finder is among the stolen electronics, he said.
Skroski said that today’s burglary comes on the heels of stolen gas cans and siphoned gas about two weeks ago in the Winnegance area of town. Similar crimes occurred at about this time last year, he said.
The chief wants residents to call police immediately — even it it’s in the middle of the night — if they suspect crimes. The Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office number is 443-8211, or if it’s an emergency, he said, call 911.
“I’m concerned,” Skroski said. “People need to be aware of these thefts and conceal their gas cans, and the same thing in their yards. If they can take their electronics off their boats, do that.”

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