Police release webcam photo of person using stolen laptop

Wichita police are using technology and social media to help track down people who may have been involved in the theft of a laptop computer.

The laptop was one of several items taken in a theft Feb. 19 in the 200 block of South Laura, near Douglas and Washington.

The owner of the laptop used its built-in webcam a few days later to remotely take a picture of a person using the computer, according to Capt. Doug Nolte, spokesman with the Wichita Police Department. Along with the laptop, computer hardware, equipment, camera, tool boxes, golf clubs and other items were stolen.

“This was turned over to police for us to do some follow-up investigation,” Nolte said.

Police detectives decided to post the photo on Facebook.

“This was a case where the detective felt it was important to get this picture out – to see if anyone recognizes it,” Nolte said.

“That is the hope, that someone will be able to recognize this individual and hopefully get an identification on him and give us ability to follow up on it. And, I think people need to be aware that technology exists.”

This story was originally published February 27, 2014 at 1:35 PM with the headline "Police release webcam photo of person using stolen laptop."