Presque Isle Teen Charged With Multiple Vehicle Break-Ins

Dude, that’s not your car.

Presque Isle authorities may have finally put an end to a string of vehicle break-ins that have been going on over the past week. Police say they arrested and charged a 17-year-old minor in connection with two particular vehicle break-ins, but there is some speculation that the teen was involved in some burglaries, as well.

“Last night we charged the juvenile with two counts of burglary,” said Presque Isle police Deputy Chief Laurie Kelly. “He could be involved in the other [burglaries].”

Police say that they started receiving complaints from residents on Sunday that some items had been stolen from their homes while they were away. By Tuesday afternoon, police had as many as 16 reports of similar incidents – thefts ranging from iPods to firearms.

“In some cases, the car owners reported it was obvious someone had rummaged through the car, but nothing was taken,” said Kelly. In those cases, items such as credit cards or gift cards were left behind.”

Kelly added that the crimes happened in the areas of Dudley, Barton, Cedar and Hardy streets in Presque Isle. “We are definitely encouraging people to lock their car doors,” she said. “If anyone notices anything missing from their cars they should let us know.”

This is an ongoing investigation. The Presque Isle Police Department asks anyone with information about this crime to contact the department 764-4476.