BINGHAM — Six minors have been charged in connection with two recent break-ins of vacant buildings in Bingham that caused extensive damage, according to the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.

The kids, ranging in age from 9 to 16 years old, are facing various charges, including burglary and aggravated criminal mischief, Sheriff Dale Lancaster said in a statement issued Tuesday.

The first of the reported break-ins happened April 24, when deputies responded to the former Somerset Rehabilitation and Living Center on Owens Street, Lancaster said. Deputies found damage at the former nursing home that closed in 2021, including broken windows and damaged walls.

An estimate to clean up the building, not including repairs, was more than $85,000, according to Lancaster.

On June 26, deputies responded to another reported burglary at the former Thompson’s Restaurant on Main Street, Lancaster said. They found “similar” damage to that building as at the rehabilitation center.

The estimated damages at the former restaurant are still being assessed, the sheriff said.

Sheriff’s office detectives assisted patrol deputies with the investigation and identified the six minors as suspects through leads and interviews, Lancaster said. The investigation is still ongoing; more charges are possible.

Juvenile criminal court proceedings in Maine are generally held behind closed doors and case files containing records are generally not available to the public. Maine law enforcement agencies generally release little identifying information about minors charged with crimes.

Lancaster confirmed that none of the children were taken to the Long Creek Youth Development Center in South Portland, the only youth correctional facility in Maine.