ROCKLAND — A Rockland man was arrested April 8 following an investigation of a burglary that occurred Wednesday, April 6, at Oceanside High School East. 

Brian Burch, 23, of Rockland, was charged with burglary by Detective Sergeant Russell Thompson and Detective Joel Neal. Burch is also being held on a probation violation. Additional charges of criminal mischief and theft are expected to be brought against Burch, said Sgt. Don Finnegan in a press release. 

Police confirmed today they believe that the only item stolen from the break-in was a fire extinguisher. 

Burch remains at the Knox County Jail without bail pending his initial court appearance next week. 

Police received numerous tips from the public after circulating photographs and video of the suspect from the school’s surveillance system. Some of the tips lead to evidence which allegedly tied Burch to the burglary. 

“The public’s help in this investigation was fantastic,” said Deputy Chief Chris Young. “Through the media and the public sharing the photos and video of the suspect, they reached more than 200,000 people. This is another example of our community and their police department working together to keep Rockland safe.” 

Rockland Police continue to investigate another school burglary at South Elementary School March 31 that also occurred during the night. Locked interior doors were damaged when they were forced open and students’ medications were also taken. 

Anyone who has any information about that break-in should contact Rockland Police at 594-0316. 

Related link:

Rockland police investigating two school burglaries within a week

Reach Sarah Shepherd at news@penbaypilot.com