Hauppauge, NY - August 30, 2014 - Suffolk County Police have arrested a man for committing a series of commercial burglaries over the past several months.
Fourth Precinct Police Officer John Hernandez was on routine patrol when heard an audible alarm at a commercial business located at 670 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge at approximately 5 a.m., August 29. Officer Hernandez proceeded to the rear of the building and was confronted by a subject, exiting with proceeds. Officer Hernandez confronted the subject, and a struggle ensued. The subject was able to flee on foot. Officer Hernandez requested assistance in locating the man from the Canine Section and Aviation Section.
A perimeter was set up and Canine Officer Robert Fanwick located the suspect hiding in nearby bushes. The suspect, John Sheats was arrested without further incident.
Investigation by Fourth Squad detectives revealed Sheats was also responsible for similar commercial burglaries occurring in Medford, Coram, Nesconset, Village of the Branch, and multiple burglaries in Hauppauge. The first burglary occurred at a business located at 2690 Route 112, Medford, on May 9.
Sheats, 35, of Central Islip was charged with 7 counts of Burglary 3rd Degree, one count of Attempted Burglary 3rd Degree, and Resisting Arrest.
Sheats is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on August 31.
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.