Multiple home break-ins linked to single suspect
A man is facing 35 charges in connection with numerous break-ins at homes in St. John's.
Police say they caught William Pearce, 29, in one of those homes, on Mount Royal Avenue, Tuesday afternoon.
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary charged him with break and enter, possession of break-in tools and breaches of court orders.
On Wednesday, investigators laid about 20 additional charges in connection with other break-ins around the city between Feb. 26 and March 19.
Stolen items include jewelry, cash and electronics.
According to police, Christine Care's home on Mount Royal Avenue was one of 10 that Pearce targetted.
Care was babysitting at her daughter's home on Tuesday when she received a phone call from a neighbour, informing her that her home was being robbed in broad daylight.
To get inside the residence, a potted tree had been thrown through a window. Neighbourhood Watch called the police, who said they caught Pearce in the house.
Care said she feels violated.
"I mean, I'm a senior, and I don't have a lot of spare income, so I was angry that someone would do something like that to me," she said. "Angry that someone would destroy my property, going through my stuff, hoping to steal from me. It really upset me."
The ordeal has also left Care anxious.
"I'm more jittery than I thought I would be," she said. "I was in bed that night, the wind blew something up against my house, and I literally came right out of the bed."
RNC Const. Talia Murphy said the recent break-ins happened during the day, with the thief getting inside through a rear door or window.
"We are advising homeowners to ensure that their properties are secured," said Murphy. "If they notice anything suspicious, or if their neighbours notice anything suspicious, contact the RNC immediately."
Murphy said the investigation is ongoing, and more charges are possible.
The other burglaries occurred on Musgrave Street, Jasper Street, Quebec Street, LeMarchant Road, Patrick Street, Casey Street, Hamilton Avenue and Linscott Street.
Pearce already has a nine-page criminal record. He remains in custody and is due back in court on April 4.
