Ex-Con Arrested In Waterford Burglaries

WATERFORD TWP. (WWJ) - Waterford Township police say a man suspected in a series of break-ins over the past several months is now behind bars.

Brian Sommer, 48, was arraigned in 51st District Court on one count of breaking and entering a building and one count of breaking and entering - illegal entry. Sommer was given a $75,000 cash bond and is currently lodged at Oakland County Jail.

Police started their investigation back in April, after a break-in was reported at Exotic Tan on Pontiac Lake Road. Employees told officers it didn't appear anything was missing from the business, but there was minor damage to a screen door.

Then, in May, almost two dozen "Genie" garage door openers were stolen from Doors of Pontiac on Highland Road. Employees told officers that the suspect entered the showroom after breaking the glass out of one of the doors. In addition to the garage door remotes, the suspect also made off with over $100 from the register.

Last week, investigators working in partnership with neighboring communities and looking into numerous citizen tips positively identified Sommer as the suspect in both break-ins.

Police also believe that Sommer is the suspect in numerous other similar B&E complaints dating back to early April that are still under investigation.

Police say Sommer has an extensive criminal history that includes convictions for auto theft, felony burglary, drugs, indecent exposure, and dealing in stolen property.

"This is an excellent example of our partnership with the citizens in our community and the many law enforcement agencies that surround us. I would like to thank the numerous citizens for calling in their tips that lead to the identification and apprehension of this criminal," Waterford Police Chief Daniel McCaw said in a statement.