Gumball machine bandit strikes Elkhart businesses

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By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Nov 14, 2008 at 9:49 AM EST

Story Updated: Nov 14, 2008 at 11:58 AM EST

ELKHART — Police in Elkhart are dealing with a new kind of robbery in the city. They’re looking for a gumball machine bandit.

For the fourth time this month, someone stole a gumball machine from a business. The most recent theft occurred Wednesday at a south side restaurant.

The incidents have been reported at Kik Custom Products, 1919 Superior St., on Oct. 3; Calahan’s Restaurant, 2917 Cassopolis St., on Oct. 9; Martin’s Super Markets, 3267 Northview Drive, on Nov. 4; Speedwash, 2701 S. Main St., on Nov. 8; Taquiria Tijuana, 800 Prairie St., on Nov. 8; and Grandma’s House of Pancakes, 3709 S. Main St., on Nov. 12.

Police believe the person took the machines for the coins inside, which can total up to $100.

Elkhart police Lt. Ed Windbigler said police have recovered at least three of the machines, which cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500. The machines were missing the coins, but some still had the gumballs inside.

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