Thieves Rob Three Habitat For Humanity Homes

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, MI — Thieves broke into and vandalized three Habitat for Humanity homes in Eastpointe and made off with three brand new furnaces, according to a news release. The homes were completed, but no one was living in them yet, and one of the targeted homes is scheduled to have a Navy veteran move in.

The thieves responsible are facing serious repercussions. Rob Johnson, Chief Operating Officer for Macomb County Habitat for Humanity, said in a statement, “In every case, the front doors were kicked in and the furnaces were taken out. Habitat will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law and will offer a reward if the thieves are identified and convicted." Johnson also said the thefts have sparked Habitat for Humanity to now install alarm systems in their homes. A costly measure, but necessary to help prevent future even costlier thefts.

In the meantime, Macomb County Habitat for Humanity is now scrambling to come up with thousands of dollars to pay for the stolen furnaces. Helen Hicks, President and CEO of Macomb County Habitat for Humanity, said in a statement, “I know this is the season to be thankful, and believe me, we are, but three stolen furnaces is a huge hit to our bottom line. Our deductible is $5000 and coming up with that amount during the end of our build season is tough. Not only that, but one of the homes that was vandalized is scheduled for a veteran family and that is simply unacceptable."

If you would like to support Macomb Habitat for Humanity with a donation, please call Briana Koehn at 586-263-1540 extension 119.

And if you have information regarding the crimes, please call the Eastpointe police at 586-445-5100.

Photo of one of the Macomb County Habitat for Humanity Homes that was broken into. Photo credit: Dave Tirsell/Macomb County Habitat for Humanity