Cash and computers stolen from school

Hartford (WTNH) - A Catholic school in Hartford was burglarized over the weekend. Police say the thieves got away with new computers, printers and about $20,000 in cash and checks.

It happened at St. Augustine School on Clifford Street. Police say the burglars forced their way into the main office and several other rooms sometime over the weekend.

"That is sick, these kids are trying to get an education," said former St. Augustine student, Kayla Lalles of Hartford.

About $20,000 in tuition money was stolen out of a filing cabinet and another $20,000 worth of new computers and printers were also stolen. Luis Cemino helped raise money for the computers and other supplies last year at the school.

"I was selling cookies and stuff. I made cookies and brought them to school and then to find out that someone robbed the computers that you helped pay for, that is very bad," Luis said.

Police believe the thieves used a screwdriver or similar took to gain access to the building.

"No words can express the frustration and anger that I felt with all that," said St. Augustine principal, Cynthia Niedbala.

Principal Niedbala made the discovery and says in these tough economic times, every penny counts. Twenty grand is a lot to the Catholic school budget, especially when the first day of school is Wednesday.

"To have to face this situation on our very first day, it puts a little bit of a damper as we plan for the school year," she said.

Anyone with information is asked to call 860-757-4250.