Police: Man Arrested Amid Court Appearance

Man Charged With Car Burglary Accused Of Breaking Into Car Outside Court

POSTED: 10:12 am EDT June 10, 2010

UPDATED: 10:38 am EDT June 10, 2010

VERNION, Conn. -- A man appearing in court on charges of breaking into vehicles was arrested and accused of getting drunk and breaking into vehicles outside the courthouse Wednesday, police said.

Police said Thomas Peno, 62, of Amston, was appearing at Rockville Superior Court on Wednesday on charges of stealing a GPS from a vehicle. Police said during the court's lunch break, Peno purchased a bottle of vodka, which he proceeded to drink until he became intoxicated in front of the courthouse.

Police said Peno was then seen attempting to get into vehicles in front of the court and eventually got into a car on St. Bernard's Terrace, which is located next to the court.

Police said Peno was stopped by marshals for being intoxicated when he re-entered the courthouse and that he matched the description of the man who had been attempting to break into cars outside. Police said the victim of the car burglary on St. Bernard's terrace then entered court and reported that their cell phone and keys had been taken.

Police said after the victim entered the courthouse, Peno attempted to flee out the door, and knocked several people down as he went. Peno was detained by a marshal until officers arrived and he was placed under arrest.

Peno was charged with breach of peace, burglary and larceny. His bond was set at $20,000 and he was scheduled to appear in court on the new charges on Thursday.

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