HOUSTON — Dr. Joseph Varon said he's at a loss for words after someone broke into his office in the Texas Medical Center and stole computers, files and research while leaving behind crucial pieces of evidence and other valuable items.
"It was very, very weird," he said.
The thief was caught on camera on Friday morning.
"She is looking for something in the research lab. How does she know?" he said.
Varon was on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the thief stole two computers and a lot of his research and paperwork. The research, he said, will help identify treatment options for patients using artificial intelligence.
"Working with the Intelligence Department of Israel," Varon said.
In the video, the thief is seen going through his files but leaving expensive equipment untouched. She even left behind some things that could lead to her being caught.
"The robber left behind a tumbler and nunchuks in my office," he said.
Varon was out of town at the time of the break-in, but his staff members called the police. He said he doesn't know why someone would be interested in taking from his office.
"Why to the doctor who worked a lot and helped so much during the pandemic? Why come break into his office?" he said.
Varon said no patient information was stolen and the computers that were taken were password-protected.
Houston police said its property and financial crimes unit was investigating. Investigators were checking around to see if other businesses or residents were targeted by the same suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call police or Crime Stoppers.