Pueblo Investigators Search For Library Book Thieves

The Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office CSU-Pueblo division is searching for suspects involved in a library book theft ring.

Investigators say the suspects entered CSU-Pueblo and Pueblo Community College bookstores and placed books under their jackets and in backpacks. They then left the stores without paying and took the books to local pawn stores. The suspects are not current CSU-Pueblo or PCC students.

The total value of the books stolen and then pawned at local pawn stores is estimated at $10,500. Many of the books were recovered and returned to both CSU-Pueblo and the bookstore at PCC since the investigation began in December.

22-year-old Dean Harris was arrested on Jan. 17 in connection with the crimes. Harris is being charged with three counts of theft and six counts of providing false information to a pawn broker. Investigators are still looking for at least four more suspects.

The following individuals have been identified and have warrants for their arrest. If you have any information about their whereabouts, you are encouraged to contact the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office (719)583-6250 or Crime Stoppers at (719)542-STOP.

29-year-old Chad Nichols: Wanted for 7 counts conspiracy to commit a prohibited act. 61-year-old Wayne Safrit: Wanted for 3 counts false information to a pawn broker. 26-year-old Jesse Manley: Wanted for 9 counts false information to a pawn broker. 37-year-old Amy Ratajczak: 3 counts false information to a pawn broker.

Below are pictures of two of the wanted individuals, Nicholas and Manley, and of the arrested suspect, Harris. PCSO says they only have pictures of these individuals at this time.

Chad Nichols:

Jesse Manley:

Dean Harris: