Staff Writer
HOULTON — It didn’t take long for police to round up two suspects who were believed to be part of a late night break-in at Ken’s Store.
Houlton Police Chief Butch Asselin said Dustin Haney, 18, of Houlton and Nicholas Lorom, 23, also of Houlton, are being charged in connection to the Oct. 22 break-in.
Officers Ezekiel Collins and Daniel Norton responded to the Calais Road store after an alarm sounded at 11:36 p.m. Less than 15 minutes later, and with help from Maine State Police Trooper Jeff Clark and his canine unit Hanno, the two suspects were in custody.
“As soon the officers arrived on scene, they heard branches breaking in the woods to the south of the store,” explained Asselin. “Officer Collins checked the tree line with a thermal imager, but didn’t see anything initially. They discovered a window on the south side of the building had been broken.”
Haney was the first to be arrested.
“Officer Collins discovered him coming out of the woods,” said Asselin. “He was all wet and muddy.”
Meanwhile, the canine unit checked an area around the store and discovered the scent of a second suspect.
“Trooper Clark gave a verbal command for anyone hiding to come out, released the dog and that’s when Nicholas Lorom came out,” said Asselin.
Police recovered a case of beer and a packet of cigarettes. Asselin said they believe the alarm spooked the pair before they could steal other items.
“I commend the officers for the great work they did, their quick response and using their experience and training to quickly apprehend the individuals involved,” he added.
Lorom and Haney are being charged with burglary, theft by unauthorized taking or transfer and criminal mischief.
