Conn. Man Accused Of Series Of Break-Ins, Thefts: Police

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — A Waterbury, Conn. man is accused of stealing valuables from vehicles and storage units in the eastern part of the county in recent months.

On Friday, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office announced it had charged Michael Petro, 53. Court records show he faces charges of third-degree burglary and third-degree grand larceny.

Sheriff Kevin J. McConville said his office on March 2 received a report from a Southeast businessman that someone had stolen approximately $15,000 worth of tools from his truck.

On Feb. 4, a different Southeast business reported approximately $12,000 worth of tires and rims had been stolen from a storage container overnight.

On Jan. 14, officials learned of a break-in at a storage container in Patterson, in which numerous tools were stolen, according to the sheriff’s office.

Investigators interviewed Petro on Feb. 27. According to the sheriff’s office, Petro admitted to the thefts and indicated he sold most of the items for cash.

Some tools were recovered and will be returned to their owners, officials said.

Petro was arraigned Friday, and he is next due in court on April 22.