Burin Peninsula RCMP made a number of arrests following an investigation into a break, enter and theft at the Midway Lounge and Gas Bar that occurred on November 16, 2020.
During the evening of November 19, 2020, police obtained and executed search warrants that authorized the search of two Marystown residences and a car, that was believed to have been used during the break and enter. Upon searching the vehicle, police located break and enter tools and other items of evidentiary value. A search of both homes resulted in the recovery of a quantity of the stolen cigarettes. Suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia were located at one residence and police continue to investigate that matter.
Fifty-five-year-old John Joseph Francis and 32-year-old Jerome Michael Smith, both of Marystown, were arrested, held in custody and attend court today.
Francis and Smith are each charged with the following offences:
- Break and enter
- Disguise with intent
- Possession of break and enter tools
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Mischief over $5000 in relation to damaged property
- Possession of property obtained by crime
Francis faces additional charges for breaches of a court order.
A 41-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman, both of Marystown, were also arrested. The two, who each face a charge of possession of property obtained by crime, were released on conditions and are set to attend court at a later date.
Burin Peninsula RCMP thanks the public for the information provided which assisted police in this investigation.
The investigation is continuing. Police ask anyone with any information on this break and enter or the location of any of the remaining stolen property to contact Marystown RCMP at 709-279-3001 or contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (TIPS is 8477), by Secure Web Tips at www.nlcrimestoppers.com, or by downloading the free and secure mobile app. Search the App Store for 'P3 Tips." Electronic tips submitted to Crime Stoppers are encrypted, entirely confidential and completely anonymous.