Massachusetts

Man Caught on Surveillance Kicking Down Door at Worcester Islamic Center

Police have arrested a man who was captured on surveillance camera Tuesday morning allegedly trying to break into an Islamic center in Worcester, Massachusetts.

The man, later identified as Andrew Burke, 30, of Shrewsbury, was captured on surveillance at 4:40 a.m. outside the Alhuda Academy on East Mountain Street trying to kick down the door.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered that the rear door of the building was open but could not locate a suspect.

Nothing was reported missing.

After putting out a picture and receiving multiple tips, police were able to identify Burke. An arrest warrant was issued and he was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon without incident.

Burke has been charged with defacement of personal property, attempting to commit a crime, breaking and entering with the intent to commit a felony and causing property damage for the purpose of intimidation. He will be arraigned Thursday at the Worcester County District Courthouse.

"This incident and others like it are taken very seriously and will not be tolerated. I would like to thank the officers and investigators that worked on this case and appreciate their commitment to bringing this investigation to a quick resolution," said Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent. "I would also like to thank the community for their cooperation with providing the name of the suspect to investigators."

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