3/10 Police Briefs: Vehicle burglars hit neighborhood

MANATEE — Six vehicles parked in the University Pines neighborhood in southern Manatee neighborhood were burglarized early Tuesday morning, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The burglar or burglar smashed the vehicles’ windows before taking various items, including a blue laptop bag, an MP-3 player, a GPS unit, a radio and a wallet.

The vehicles were parked in the 8300 and 8400 blocks of Country Park Way; the 5100 and 5200 blocks of Ithaca Lane; and 8300 block of Brandies Circle West.

University Pines is just north of University Parkway, east of Lockwood Ridge Road.

$40,000 missing from furniture store

MANATEE — A furniture store employee was under investigation after the owner reported more than $40,000 was missing.

According to a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office report, Fred Sobr told investigators that between Sept. 28 and Jan. 21, checks from his business, Manatee Furniture, 3015 First St., were written and cashed without his authorization.

David Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff’s office, said Tuesday the case was still under investigation and will be turned over to the Florida State Attorney’s Office.

— Carl Mario Nudi and Marc R. Masferrer

Police briefs are compiled from reports from law enforcement agencies and fire departments in Manatee and Sarasota. Those with information about crimes can call Crimestoppers at (866) 634-TIPS (8477).