RICHMOND — Local police said a second arrest is likely in connection with last week’s break-in at a Brunswick Road store that resulted in the theft of more than $1,000 worth of alcohol and cigarettes.

Ernest Patti, 30, of Brunswick, already is facing charges of burglary and receiving stolen property, said Richmond Police Chief Scott MacMaster. Police believe that Patti was the lookout and driver for the break-in, which was reported around 5:30 a.m. Thursday at Pat’s Store, at 160 Brunswick Road.

MacMaster said the man who actually carried out the burglary probably will be arrested soon.

“We definitely have a second suspect,” MacMaster said. “We are working on putting an arrest warrant together.”

The burglars made off with three packs of Twisted Tea and 23 cartons of cigarettes worth about $1,400, MacMaster said. The burglars also are believed to have broken into a nearby car to steal items used to carry the tea and cigarettes out of the store, such as a sweatshirt and helmet.

Patti was charged Thursday night at the Brunswick police station, where he had been taken after police in that town charged him with domestic terrorizing. Patti and his alleged accomplice are being investigated in connection with crimes other communities as well, MacMaster said.

Patti may face additional charges at the conclusion of the police investigation, MacMaster said.


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