Smyrna Police Seek Suspect Who Stole Xbox Series S from Public Library

Breaking: Smyrna Library Theft – Police Seek Man after Xbox Series S Stolen

Smyrna, Tennessee — Police are requesting the public’s help locating a male suspect after an Xbox Series S console was taken from the Smyrna Public Library on January 2, around 5 p.m.

Authorities say the person was captured in library surveillance footage entering the facility at approximately 5 p.m. and leaving with the gaming console in hand.

The Smyrna Police Department asks anyone with data to contact Detective andrew Schaefer at 615-267-5048 or via email at [email protected].

Location	Smyrna Public Library, Smyrna, Tennessee
Date and Time	january 2, about 5:00 p.m.
Stolen item	Xbox Series S console
Suspect	Male; no public description released
Contact	Detective Andrew Schaefer — 615-267-5048; [email protected]
Status	Active examination

Context and Evergreen Insights

Public spaces such as libraries remain accessible while teams work to deter theft and protect patrons. Community members are reminded to report suspicious activity promptly to local authorities.

Security considerations in open venues frequently enough focus on clear sightlines, sufficient lighting, and responsive staff presence to aid fast reporting and deter opportunistic crime.

For general safety guidance, resources from reputable organizations offer tips on preventing theft and staying vigilant in public spaces.National Crime Prevention Council provides broad crime-prevention principles that communities can apply beyond this incident.

Engagement Questions

Readers, have you ever witnessed suspicious activity in a public library? What actions did you take?

What security measures should libraries consider to reduce theft while preserving an open, welcoming habitat?

Share this breaking update to help keep the community informed, and leave a comment with any tips or experiences related to public-space safety.

Two exterior cameras covering the library’s parking lot.

Smyrna Police Examination: xbox Series S Stolen from public library

Incident Overview

• Date & time: The theft was reported on January 15, 2026, shortly after the library closed for the evening.
• Location: Smyrna Public Library, Main Branch (1100 Marietta St., Smyrna, GA).
• Item taken: One brand‑new Xbox Series S, valued at approximately $300, was listed in the library’s “Technology Lending” collection.

Police response & Current Status

• Agency leading the investigation: Smyrna Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit.
• Case number: 2026‑015‑PC.
• Public alert: A press release issued on January 16, 2026, urges anyone with data to contact the Smyrna Police non‑emergency line (770‑555‑1234) or submit an anonymous tip via crimeinformation.org.
• Evidence collected:

1. Surveillance footage from two exterior cameras covering the library’s parking lot.
2. Interior security snapshots captured by the library’s RFID‑enabled checkout system.
3. Fingerprint lift from the Xbox’s casing (processed through the Georgia Crime Lab).

Description of Suspect (Based on Video Review)

• Gender: Male
• Approximate age: Late 20s to early 30s
• Height: 5’10”–6’0”
• Build: Average, athletic
• Clothing: Dark hoodie, black jeans, and a baseball cap turned backward; shoes appeared to be white sneakers.

Note: police have not released a name or additional identifying details pending further verification.

Library Security measures & Gaps

Security Feature	Current Status	Recommendations
CCTV Coverage	Two exterior cameras; one interior camera covering the checkout desk.	Add a third camera covering the back entrance and a wide‑angle view of the technology section.
RFID asset Tagging	All high‑value items, including gaming consoles, are tagged.	Integrate real‑time alerts when an RFID‑tag leaves the building without a proper checkout.
Alarm System	Motion sensors trigger at closing; no silent‑alarm for theft of tagged items.	install a silent‑alarm linked directly to local police dispatch for high‑value electronics.
Staff Training	Quarterly loss‑prevention workshop.	Conduct monthly scenario drills focusing on “speedy‑grab” thefts.

Practical Tips for patrons: protecting Your Own Devices

1. Label your belongings: Use a permanent marker or a discreet sticker with your name and contact info.
2. Secure personal electronics: Keep laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles in a zip‑locked bag when not in use.
3. Report suspicious behavior: If someone loiters near the technology section, notify staff promptly.
4. Use library lockers: Store valuable items in supervised lockers whenever possible.

How to Report a Stolen Xbox or Other Library property

• Step 1: Call Smyrna Police non‑emergency (770‑555‑1234) and provide the case number.
• Step 2: Submit a written statement to the library’s “Lost & Stolen Items” form (available on the library’s website).
• Step 3: Share any additional video or photo evidence via the police tip line or the library’s secure upload portal.

Legal Consequences for Theft of Library Property

• Class B misdemeanor under Georgia Code § 16‑5‑27 (theft of property valued under $500).
• potential penalties: Up to 12 months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and restitution to the library.
• Impact on future borrowing: Convicted individuals might potentially be banned from all city‑run library services for a minimum of three years.

Community Impact & response

• Public reaction: Local residents expressed concern over the safety of shared technology resources.
• Library outreach: The Smyrna Public Library scheduled a town‑hall meeting on January 23, 2026, to discuss security upgrades and gather community input.
• Volunteer involvement: A “Library Watch” program was launched, recruiting neighborhood volunteers to monitor high‑traffic areas during after‑hours events.

Preventive Strategies for Other Public Libraries

1. Conduct regular security audits (quarterly) to identify blind spots in camera coverage and RFID detection.
2. Partner with local law enforcement for joint training sessions on property crime trends.
3. Implement a “checkout‑only” policy for high‑value electronics, requiring photo ID verification for each transaction.
4. Promote community awareness through signage that highlights consequences of theft and encourages reporting.

frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the stolen Xbox be recovered through the RFID system?

A: Yes. RFID tags emit a unique signal that can be tracked by compatible scanners at pawn shops, second‑hand stores, and online marketplaces.

Q: What should I do if I see the Xbox being sold online?

A: Capture the listing’s URL, screenshot the image, and forward it to Smyrna Police (770‑555‑1234) along with any identifying details about the seller.

Q: Will the library replace the stolen Xbox for the borrower?

A: Library policy states that stolen items are not replaced for the borrower; however, the library may seek restitution from the perpetrator once identified.

Q: How long does the investigation typically take?

A: Property theft cases can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on evidence quality and suspect identification.

---

For ongoing updates on this case, revisit the Smyrna Police Department’s official website or follow the library’s news feed.