Arrest Made In String Of Store Robberies And Larcenies In Manchester

MANCHESTER, CT — Manchester police have announced an arrest in connection with several store thefts in town.

On Tuesday, police took into custody 42-year-old local resident Michael Rivera on four outstanding warrants related to multiple burglaries and a robbery in town dating back to November. Officers located Rivera at his residence, and he was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit, according to an arrest report.

Police said detectives connected Rivera to several incidents:

• Nov, 29, 2024: Officers responded to the Ravi Mart at 208 West Middle Turnpike for a reported robbery. An employee stated that a man entered the store, demanded money from the register, and left with approximately $2,000 in cash. For the incident, Rivera was charged with third-degree burglary and third-degree larceny.
• Jan. 10, 2025: Officers responded to the Ravi Mart for another reported robbery. An employee reported that a man suspect entered the store, demanded money, and left with approximately $600 in cash. In that caper, Rivera was charged with third-degree burglary and fifth-degree larceny.
• Jan. 13, 2025: Officers responded to the Ravi Mart for a third robbery. A staffer said a man demanded money from the register, and left with approximately $400 in cash. Rivera was charged in the case with: sixth-degree larceny and third-degree burglary.
• Jan. 14, 2025: Officers responded to the Super Convenience Store at 469 Hartford Road for a reported robbery. A man entered the store, told an employee open the register, and threatened to shoot him. Although no weapon was displayed, the man kept his hands in his sweatshirt pockets, suggesting he was armed. He made off with approximately $1,200 in cash. For the incident, Rivera was charged with first-degree robbery, second-degree threatening and fourth-degree larceny.

Additionally, Rivera was charged with interfering with an officer for attempting to evade the warrant service. Rivera was held on a $260,000 bond and was to appear in Manchester Superior Court Wednesday.