Break-in and theft at Yarmuth HQ is second incident in two weeks

In the aftermath of a wind storm that left hundreds of thousands across the Commonwealth without power, U.S. Rep. John Yarmuth's (D-Louisville) downtown Louisville headquarters was burglarized for the second time in as many weeks last night.

After last Tuesday's incident, the losses were not as major for the Yarmuth camp, with a computer server among the missing items. In the latest incident, the campaign reports they lost sensitive information and a good deal of equipment.

"This time, they got the information they were looking for,"said Christopher Hartman, Yarmuth's campaign spokesman.

Hartman said three computers were stolen, but corresponding monitors were left behind. In addition, the campaign's financial office was reportedly broken into, though the cash in the office was not taken.

Hartman said the campaign would have to take time to clean up their facilities, as the intruders are said to have "trashed" the office as well.

Much of Louisville was hit by 70-plus mile per hour winds on Sunday, downing trees and power lines, consequently cutting off power throughout the area. The break-in occurred overnight after the storm died down but power remained out across the city.

Hartman says the incident won't slow the Yarmuth campaign too much, but noted the repetition of the crimes may take a slight toll on campaign morale.

Yarmuth, the 3rd Congressional District incumbent, is facing former U.S. Rep. Anne Northup (R-Louisville) in November's general election.