The Fourth Squad reports on the arrest of a homeless man for a Burglary that occurred on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at 1:17 AM in Lawrence.
According to Detectives, defendant Mark Berko, 31, did enter a Dunkin Donuts located at 299 Burnside Avenue where a 19-year-old male employee had an Order of Protection against him. Defendant Mark Berko forcibly removed a cash draw from the register and fled the store where he smashed the draw on the sidewalk in order to access the US Currency located inside. Defendant Mark Berko was located and placed under arrest by responding Officers a short time later without further incident. Defendant Mark Berko was transported to a nearby hospital for assessment. No injuries reported at scene.
Defendant Mark Berko is charged with Burglary 3rd degree, Criminal Mischief 3rd degree, Criminal Contempt 1st degree and Petit Larceny. He will be arraigned on Monday, December 30th, 2024 at First District Court, located at 99 Main Street, Hempstead.
Defendant Mark Berko was previously arrested on November 26th, 2024 for an incident that occurred at the same Dunkin Donuts location on November 21st, 2024 where he was charged with Robbery 3rd degree and Criminal Mischief 4th degree. He was Released on his Own Recognizance (ROR).