The plot thickens: More MSU sports rings stolen

MERIDIAN TWP. — Meridian Township police believe two memorabilia thefts from former Michigan State football staff members are connected.

The thefts were reported earlier this month by former MSU coach George Perles and Bob Knickerbocker, the former longtime equipment manager.

Meridan Township police Lt. Greg Frenger said the department doesn’t have any suspects but believes the thefts are connected.

Knickerbocker reported on Sept. 8 the theft of about 25 rings from bowl games and other sports, plus a watch, Frenger said.

Perles lost 14 bowl rings and other jewelry when his house was broken into during the MSU-Oregon football game Sept. 12, police said.

In both cases, other valuables were untouched.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Meridian Township Police Department at 517-853-4800.

Contact Matt Mencarini at (517) 267-1347 or mmencarini@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattMencarini . The Associated Press contributed.