Rochester, MN - The Rochester Police Department has launched an investigation following the theft of a Salvation Army Red Kettle, in an incident that took place on Monday evening at the Apache Mall. The Salvation Army reported that over $300 was stolen by two individuals who breached the security measures on the kettle.

According to surveillance footage from Apache Mall, a man and a woman were seen approaching the kettle at approximately 5:20 p.m. The duo managed to overcome the security measures protecting the kettle and swiftly absconded with it, leaving the volunteer who was scheduled for their shift shocked and kettle-less.

Major Cornell Voeller, Corps Officer for Business at the Rochester Salvation Army, expressed concern over the incident. "One of our volunteers showed up for their shift and there was no kettle there," he said. The Salvation Army relies heavily on the donations received from the Red Kettle campaign during the holiday season to support their charitable activities.

The Rochester Police Department has called on the community to assist in identifying the culprits shown in the surveillance photos. The authorities urge anyone with information or who recognizes the individuals involved to come forward and share what they know. Help from the public is critical in bringing those responsible to justice.

Individuals with relevant information regarding the stolen kettle and the two suspects are strongly encouraged to contact the Rochester Police Department. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement officers work diligently to recover the stolen funds and ensure that those involved face the consequences of their actions.

The incident serves as a reminder for both shoppers and charities during the holiday season to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect donations. The Salvation Army and other charitable organizations are committed to providing assistance to those in need, and incidents like these underscore the importance of community support in helping them fulfill their mission.

As the investigation unfolds, the Rochester Police Department will continue their efforts to apprehend the individuals responsible for this unfortunate incident.