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Published on January 19, 2025
Brookhaven Man Charged in Brazen West Chester Burglary Spree, Including Theft from Police CarSource: Facebook/West Chester Borough Police Department

West Chester, Pennsylvania, has been a community on edge after a series of burglaries last August prompted fears and frayed nerves among residents. A breakthrough in the case came with the arrest of Lawrence Dass, a 27-year-old from Brookhaven, who is now facing charges for his alleged involvement in these crimes. Dass was apprehended following an extensive investigation involving video surveillance, fingerprint, and DNA evidence linking him to multiple break-ins, as reported by FOX 29.

In what has to be described as audacious, authorities say Dass broke into a West Chester police patrol car to steal not only a badge but also a body armor vest while the officer was conducting investigations. This incident was among at least five burglaries in which Dass has been charged, according to reports from NBC Philadelphia and 6abc. Details provided highlight a suspect who seemingly struck brazenly, targeting homes and even law enforcement equipment.

One victim, Abbi Brango, described the invasion of her privacy as "one of my worst nightmares," in a statement obtained by 6abc. The sense of security that we so often take for granted was clearly disrupted by these events.

Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe expressed relief over the arrest but also caution, suggesting more victims may yet be uncovered. "Burglars destroy our sense of security in our homes," he remarked, emphasizing the collaboration between law enforcement agencies as crucial to making “West Chester a safer place," as per NBC Philadelphia. He further asked the public to come forward with any potentially related information, hoping to fully unravel the extent of Dass’s purported criminal activities.

While the suspect is currently being held on a $50,000 bond at a Chester County prison, the community’s eyes will be turned towards the preliminary hearing scheduled for January 21.