JUDGE

Man Arrested in Attempted Mosque Break-in

Andrew Burke was arraigned Thursday on charges including attempting to commit a crime and causing property damage for the purpose of intimidation

A Shrewsbury man has been ordered to undergo mental health evaluation after what police said was his apparent attempt to break into a mosque in Worcester.

Andrew Burke was arraigned Thursday on charges including attempting to commit a crime and causing property damage for the purpose of intimidation.

Police said the 30-year-old man was seen on security video Tuesday approaching the Worcester Islamic Center, kicking at a glass panel on a door and trying to pry open the doors. He eventually left but was later arrested.

In court Thursday, Burke began shouting at the judge and was physically removed by court officers. He was sent to Bridgewater State Hospital for evaluation.

Burke's court-appointed guardian, Julie Reardon, told The Telegram of Worcester that Burke suffers from chronic mental health illness.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us