Adams County sheriff’s deputies have begun routine patrols along the Mississippi River as flood waters rise and enterprising criminals take to the water to burglarize unattended hunting and fishing camps.

Deputy Charles Feltus says while most homes and camps are still above the water, several have succumbed to the rising river. He says more than one structure on the river was submerged up to its roof.

At Giles Island, for example, a road that led to a hunting camp was under 16 feet of water.

On Sunday, the river was at 51.20 feet. The river is expected to crest at 53 feet on May 25.