Johnston Man Charged after Breaking into Vacant House

A 27-year-old Johnston man is facing charges of breaking and entering and possession of burglary tools after he was caught poking around the inside of a vacant house on Rosemont Avenue recently.

Police said Steven S. Sarchione, of 29 Auburn Ave., Johnston, was seen by a neighbor as he got out of his car, put on a flourescent vest and went inside the house.

Police responded to the scene and said Sarchione was inside the lower level walking room to room. Police told him to step outside, where he was found to be possessing jewelry, a screwdriver and ratchet tool.

Sarchione reportedly told police that the house belongs to his friend, a former owner, and he was there on his behalf to retrieve clothes for him.

Police checked with Johnston Code Enforcement Officer Peter DelPonte who officers that the house is condemned and under the town's care. Because of the intrusion, DelPonte advised police that he'd like charges to be pressed for breaking and entering on behalf of the town.

Sarchione was ordered held without bail because he was a Superior Court violator, police said. Bail on the new charges was set at $10,000 with surety and he is due to appear in court on Aug. 20.