GODFREY, Ill. (KMOX) - Officials think Heroin addiction is behind an epidemic of air conditioner theft in the Godfrey Illinois area.

The thefts of outdoor units, nearly twenty of them, have taken place in every month since February.

Madison County Sheriff’s Lt. Kris Tharp says the targets are homes and businesses.

Lt. Tharp says they are talking with persons of interest and have collected some physical evidence.

He says even if someone is charged in the Godfrey thefts he sees this as a trend across the metro.

Officials are asking for the public’s help. The anonymous tip line number is 618-296-3000