NEW CONCORDIA — Police are examining a surveillance device disguised as a luxury fire extinguisher after it allegedly recorded months of private conversations inside a downtown apartment.

The black metal cylinder bore the resident’s name and a connection to Cross Security, according to investigators. Inside were a microphone, electronic components and removable storage containing dated audio files.

“There was no pressure gauge, inspection tag or extinguishing agent,” Deputy Fire Marshal Denise Harper said. “A houseplant would have offered comparable fire protection.”

Authorities believe the device targeted clients of an event-planning business that used the apartment for meetings. At least one recording was allegedly edited into compromising audio and used to demand monthly payments.

Investigators are testing whether the device transmitted alerts when opened or accessed. Fire officials are also asking residents to check whether their safety equipment can perform any task beyond matching the curtains.