A serial burglar is targeting rural Iowa convenience stores. Investigators say he uses spray paint to cover security cameras, but in one case he missed a camera.

On July 8th, the Corn Crib Convenience Store & Restaurant in Shelby was burglarized. The suspect immediately sprayed the video cameras with paint. He took several cartons of cigarettes and an unknown amount of money.

A similiar incident occurred July 18th at Nelsen's Mini Mart in Avoca. When employees arrived they found a hole in a wall at the back of the store. It's believed the thief got in through the opening and once again spray painted the security cameras.

He attempted to break-in to the ATM, but was unsuccessful. He did get away with 123 cartons of cigarettes and some cash.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Department at (712) 890-2223.