Police seek man charged in Jackson jewelry burglary

When a Jackson resident returned home April 10 and discovered a burglar, it may have solved a string of jewelry burglaries that have been plaguing both Jackson and Cape Girardeau since the fall.

The homeowner chased the burglar from the residence on Country Club Place to a nearby Montgomery Bank in an attempt to recover the thief's loot, according to a sworn statement by Lt. Rodney Barnes of the Jackson Police Department. While that was unsuccessful -- the burglar reportedly punched the homeowner and escaped with a load of jewelry and cash -- the homeowner was able to help police create a composite sketch and identify a car possibly used for a getaway.

On Thursday, prosecutors filed to have Mark P. Lowery, 46, charged with first-degree burglary and theft. When caught, Lowery would be required to post a $25,000 cash bond or sit in jail while he awaits a day in court.

Jackson police did not return calls seeking comment. Cape Girardeau police, who have been trying to solve about 60 similar burglaries where the thief stole only jewelry and cash, assisted Jackson police in identifying Lowery from the homeowner's description and other evidence.

While Cape Girardeau police are investigating Lowery's possible connection to the 60 break-ins, there is no firm evidence of his involvement, police spokesman Sgt. Jason Selzer said.

In the Country Club Place burglary, the homeowner reported the burglar took $700 in cash, several gold rings engraved with identifying marks, numerous necklaces, wedding rings and a diamond watch valued at $2,000. The rings were discovered in a pawnshop in Robinson, Ill., which is the town listed as Lowery's address in court filings. The pawnshop owner identified Lowery as the person who sold the rings, Barnes wrote.

During the investigation, police released to the media the composite sketch of Lowery and a still picture of the small red car he was seen driving. As a result, police received several reports about his activities, including an anonymous tip that Lowery was trying to raise money to flee the area because photos of his car were being broadcast on television, Barnes wrote in his sworn statement.

Other reports, including one from an acquaintance of Lowery's reporting that he had been offered the stolen rings, helped police identify Lowery as their suspect, Barnes wrote.

Attempts to find Lowery at his last known Cape Girardeau address on Big Bend Road were unsuccessful.

Lowery drives a 2001 red Chevrolet Cavalier with a Missouri license plate.

rkeller@semissourian.com

388-3642

Pertinent addresses:

Country Club Place, Jackson, Mo.

Robinson, Ill.