ELMIRA – Five people were arrested earlier today in the City of Elmira after police, who were working on an investigation to several burglaries of vacant buildings in the area, came upon the former Star Gazette building on Baldwin Street and found a door into the building open.
When police entered the building, they observed an individual running from the building. The individual was captured a short time later. At the same time, other individuals were seen running throughout the building, all of whom were eventually taken into custody.
According to police, the suspects were in the process of cutting copper pipes and large gauge wire in the building. There was reportedly extensive damage to the interior of the building caused by the individuals.
As a result, five people were arrested:
- 29 year old Levi Bailey of Elmira
- 39 year old Erica Hurler of Westfield PA
- 43 year old Patrick Davis of Painted Post
- 39 year old Blaine Hurler of Westfield PA
- 52 year old Christopher Gee of Elmira.
All five were arrested and charged with Burglary in the 3rd Degree and Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree, both of which are Class D felonies. All were taken to Chemung County jail and arraigned letter this afternoon.
Police say the investigation continues and further arrests may be forthcoming.
The Elmira Police Department was assisted by the New York State Police, Chemung County Sheriff’s Department as well as Elmira Code Enforcement and Elmira Department of Public Works.
Police ask that anyone with information about this matter contact Elmira Police Department at (607)737-5626 or (607)271-HALT.