One Baker student is being charged with misdemeanor theft after two other students reported stolen books from their rooms at the end of the fall 2008 semester.

Dean of Students Cassy Bailey said the students reported books stolen out of their rooms and common areas of their residence hall.

Baldwin City Police Officer Tom Wiseman said two students in the Living and Learning Center each reported separate instances, both happening Dec. 9. The combined theft was estimated at about $550.

Wiseman said the police department worked alongside the administration, the bookstore and Baker security to gather evidence, based on which the suspected student was arrested.

Bailey said part of the investigation included using the bookstore’s records of returned books, looking at books the suspect returned and finding the suspect wasn’t in classes he returned books for.

“We took it seriously, we investigated it fully, and we held students responsible against the student code of conduct,” Bailey said.

Wiseman said video footage from the bookstore security camera also was used in the investigation.

Due to the student’s engagement in felony activities, Wiseman said his case will be held at the District Court in Lawrence.

He will go through a series of court dates and his trial won’t be for several months.

“There is the possibility of more charges coming,” Wiseman said.

Bailey said since theft is a level three and highest ranking offense according to university policy, it would result in either suspension or dismissal of the student. However, she was unable to specify which was sanctioned against the student.

Bailey said another student was penalized for his involvement in the incident.

“Involvement is an accessory, held to the same standard,” Bailey said.

Bailey emphasized students’ rooms weren’t broken into during the crime, but that the suspect was acquainted with the victims.

“As always, we encourage students to lock their doors and take responsibility for their personal space,” Bailey said.

Bookstore Manager Teresa Arnold said this is the first incident of theft the bookstore has knowingly been involved in since she started working there two years ago.

Bailey said the students who reported the stolen books were lucky the suspect didn’t try to sell the books online.

“Students don’t have to return things to the bookstore,” she said.

She also said she is curious about how many students don’t report stolen books because they think they misplaced them.

She said stolen books not only have a financial impact, but can hinder grade performance by not being able to study.

“I’m not sure you can put a dollar amount on that,” Bailey said.