String of Madras burglaries frustrate victims

There’s been seven reported burglaries in Madras since September, and many fear the number is growing fast.

Beyond Words salon was one business hit, and the owners say they feel emotionally robbed.

It started on a Wednesday.

“Tried to rip off the doorknob of the backdoor,” co-owner Michelle Stensgar said Monday.

They were unsuccessful, but their persistence brought them back two days later.

“We had already secured it by the 2-by-4s, so when they came back, they couldn’t get through this door,” co-owner Judie Hume said.

So the burglars ran around the building, breaking windows and trying doors before upping the tempo.

“It looked like they used a crowbar and went through the dead bolt and broke the door open,” Stensgar said.

But their determination prevailed.

“Sat down on the couch here, went through the box here,” Hume said.

Every door except one in the salon has a dead bolt.

“So we kind of felt like we were safe. So it really affected me that we aren’t safe,” Stensgar said.

Since the incident, co-owners Michelle Stensgar and Jodie Hume have not only questioned their safety, but also some passersby.

“The first week, we’re kind of looking out the window and going, ‘Was it you? Did you do this?” Stensgar said.

For the Madras natives, this is a feeling they are not used to.

“Just growing up here, I know stuff happens in every community. But for it to happen this much and keep happening, I feel robbed. I’m sure other people do, too. Plus the fear,” Stensgar said.

Only a few things were actually stolen, but the burglars sat on their couches and even went through their refrigerator.

“Just kind of seemed to make themselves at home,” Hume said.

And home is the last place you want to see a string of crimes.

“I feel like they’ve robbed our community,” Stensgar said.

The owners also said they have heard of almost three times the amount of burglaries initially reported.

Madras police were contacted to confirm that but did not return our call.

If you have information that could help find the burglars, call Madras police at 541-475-2424.