Teen charged as adult in vandalism, burglary spree
Monroe County law enforcement officials have filed charges against 17-year-old Kaiden Brown in connection with a series of overnight crimes that occurred on April 2, in Chestnuthill Township.
The charges stem from multiple burglaries, acts of vandalism, and the discharge of a firearm, including an incident in which a residential home was struck by a bullet while the occupants were inside.
The Pennsylvania State Police at Fern Ridge conducted a coordinated investigation that led to the identification of suspects through surveillance footage, witness statements, and corroborated interviews.
According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Trooper Bridgette Flanigan of the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Investigation Unit, the defendant and a juvenile co-conspirator are alleged to have burglarized multiple businesses, stolen firearms, and discharged dozens of rounds in residential and commercial areas. Damage was reported at several locations including LAPP Structures, Bright Fuel gas station, West End Tobacco and Vape, and Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitters.
A bullet was recovered from inside a home on Fairview Circle, where the homeowners were present during the alleged shooting. Authorities believe the act was deliberate, motivated by personal animosity.
The District Attorney’s Office underscores that these allegations are deeply concerning due to the serious threat they posed to public safety. Firearms were not only unlawfully obtained but allegedly used recklessly and intentionally in ways that endangered the lives of innocent residents.
Monroe County District Attorney Mike Mancuso said, “Incidents involving juveniles and firearms will be prosecuted with the utmost seriousness to protect our neighborhoods and uphold the rule of law.”
Police are still searching for the gun and anyone else involved in the incident.
Anyone with additional information about these incidents is urged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Fern Ridge. Further updates will be provided as the case progresses through the judicial system.