Two young adults from Connecticut committed arned robbery before hiding in an Orchard Terrace home, Burlington police say.
On Monday September 2, at 2:20 pm, officers with the Burlington Police Department were dispatched to a disturbance at a home on Orchard Terrace. It was also reported there has been a recent issue of squatters in the residence.
When officers arrived on scene, it was learned that only one individual has permission to be inside the residence and the tenant is currently residing on the first floor of the property. The day prior, BPD patrol officers cleared the residence.
With the exception of the front and rear doors, the unused doors of the property have been boarded up and the locks changed. Police were told people could be heard yelling on the third floor of the property.
Officers made contact with the tenant who went outside while officers cleared the building. While clearing the building, officers made contact with two individuals. Laquonne Thames, 18, of Manchester, Connecticut, was found in the hallway of the second floor. Amanda Rodgers, 21, of Windsor, Connecticut, was found hiding in the third floor bathroom.
Investigation revealed Thames, Rodgers, and a third suspect were involved in a robbery at gunpoint the night prior. The suspects then allegedly took over the residence following the robbery. During the night, two more individuals arrived at the residence and a physical altercation ensued.
After officers detained Rodgers and Thames, officers located over $10,000 in cash and a firearm. The Colchester Police Department responded to assist with their K9 to search the residence for narcotics – several bags were seized pending Vermont State warrants to search them. The BPD’s Drug Unit responded to assist – the investigation remains ongoing.
Both Rodgers and Thames were transported to the Burlington Police Department. Rodgers was taken into custody for Aiding in the Commission of a Felony, Simple Assault, and Unlawful Trespass. Thames was taken into custody for Assault and Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Unlawful Restraint, Possession of Dangerous Weapons During the Commission of a Felony, and Unlawful Trespass.
A review of Rodgers’ and Thames’ criminal history revealed they were on probation in Connecticut. Rodgers had an extensive criminal history out of Connecticut to include prior firearm related charges and a robbery charge.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Burlington Police Department at (802) 658-2704.