KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and SportsThieves target experimental grapevine in Minnesota

Thieves target experimental grapevine in Minnesota

VICTORIA, Minn. (AP) -- Thieves in Carver County have targeted an experimental grapevine that could lead to a new type of wine.

Authorities say the grapevine was taken recently from the University of Minnesota's Horticulture Research Center in Victoria.

Center spokesman Peter Moe says the thieves apparently knew what they wanted. He says someone stole samples from vines that are being to develop a new type of grape.

He says the university has been researching the grape for two years. He says if someone replants the vine, it could threaten the revenue stream the university would have seen if the grape turns out to be commercially successful.

Sheriff Bud Olson says investigators are looking at the crime as a possible inside job. He says they'll be talking to past and current employees.