OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) -- — An alleged construction site thief is back on the streets, but authorities are still investigating on how many more charges should be filed.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office anticipates turning over their evidence to Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine by the end of the week.
Sheriff’s say they have identified 11 homes broken into, allegedly by Brett Nelson, and 17 victims. A total of $16,000 worth of goods were identified as stolen.
Sheriff's say Nelson, 38, broke into upwards of 20 homes under construction in Sarpy and Douglas Counties between 180th and 204th Streets. He allegedly kicked in the doors, burned painting tape for a light, and put the stuff in a white van that was poorly painted black before going to pawn it.
Nelson has been charged with 8 counts of burglary in Sarpy County.
Jerry Graaf installs cabinets for Fox Cabinets and says he's heard from other contractors who have had their tools stolen from inside locked homes since November taking their livelihood.
"That poor guy, they're living paycheck to paycheck too and then you take his tools, he's got to replace that. he's got to work twice as much just to even get back to even so it's a little discouraging to watch somebody get away with something like that,” Graaf explained.
Nelson posted 10% of a $50,000 bond in Sarpy County, but will likely be back in jail after being charged in Douglas County.
A search warrant indicates nelson also had methamphetamine and a pipe in his van.
