Southington Teenager Facing Charges in String of July Thefts

A Southington teenager is facing multiple charges stemming from his role in thefts around his neighborhood earlier this month that included the theft of a handgun and credit card from nearby cars.

Police said Austin A. Baker, of 287 Rockwood Drive in Southington, turned himself in on a warrant Tuesday after learning there was an active warrant for his arrest. He was booked and taken to Bristol Superior Court for arraignment, according to court records.

Baker, 18, is facing charges of first-degree burglary, six counts of third-degree burglary, fifth-degree larceny, five counts of sixth-degree larceny, stealing a firearm, possession of a firearm without a proper permit, third-degree criminal mischief, credit card theft and second-degree providing a false statement. He remains in state custody in lieu of a $10,000 court set bond.

Southington Police Sgt. Jeffrey Dobratz said Baker was connected to the burglaries in the Blue Hills Drive, Panorama Drive and Rockwood Drive area on July 1.

“Baker allegedly burglarized several vehicles as well as a residence. It is also alleged that during the burglaries, Baker stole several items from vehicles including a firearm and a credit card; he damaged property and he provided a false statement to police,” Dobratz said.

The gun was taken into custody as evidence, police said.

The rash of thefts were reported to police the following day, officers said, and evidence collected during the investigation helped tie Baker to the thefts. When police questioned him, however, he initially provided a written statement denying involvement before later rescinding that statement and providing police with details of the incident in a second written statement, Dobratz said.

Baker is facing two cases in court, according to records made available on the state’s Judicial Branch website. He is due back in Bristol Superior Court on Aug. 16 and could present a plea to the charges at that time.

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