UPDATE: Superintendent says additional security measures in place at ransacked schools

The Maricopa Unified School District has tweaked its security in response to two elementary school break-ins this past weekend, said Superintendent Steve Chestnut.

He would not give any details, however, citing security issues. The schools already have alarm systems.

A burglary at Butterfield Elementary School, where $700 was taken from a safe, was reported Sunday to the Maricopa Police Department and vandalism was reported at Saddleback Elementary School Monday morning.

School officials who reported the crime at both schools said there were signs of forced entry but the police department did not release details on how access was gained to the schools. 

Police said the crimes were “similar in nature” and appeared to be motivated by money.

“We’re the victims of a crime,” Chestnut said Tuesday.

He said the school district is working with the Maricopa Police Department to find the person or people responsible.

Anyone with information is asked to contact MPD either through dispatch by calling 520-568-3673 or anonymously through the MPD crime tip line at 520-316-6912. 

It was reported Monday that both schools were ransacked between Friday afternoon and Monday morning.

Officials from both schools reported signs of forced entry. However, no details were released on the extent of any damage.