Police: E. Patchogue Man Broke Into Home, Cut Copper Pipes

An East Patchogue man was caught breaking into an unoccupied home and cutting copper pipes on Monday afternoon, police said.

According to police, residents noticed a suspicious man wearing a backpack by 151 South Dunton Avenue and called 911. Fifth Precinct Patrol Officers Matthew DeMatteo and Kevin Yoli responded and made entry through the front door and found Shawn Eldridge hiding in the basement, police said.

Eldridge, 46, was arrested and charged with third degree burglary and possession of burglar tools.

Eldridge will be held overnight at the Fifth Precinct and is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on Wednesday.

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