An 18-year-old Burlington man faces six charges following a series of incidents in Mount Pleasant involving vehicle burglaries and firearms.
Court records accuse Johnathen James Bourquin of trying to open a locked vehicle in the 800 block of East Bell Drive shortly after 3:15 Sunday morning. Investigators say security-camera footage showed Bourquin approaching the vehicle and trying its passenger-side door.
Later that day, a fully marked Henry County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle was reported burglarized in the 900 block of South Smith Street. An assault rifle, plate carriers and two “go” bags were taken.
At about 6:25 Sunday evening, police and deputies responded to an armed disturbance in the 1100 block of East Madison Street. Court documents allege Bourquin pointed a firearm at his sister and then at another person who stepped between them.
A deputy recovered the stolen rifle at the residence. Investigators say Bourquin later admitted that he and a juvenile had taken the items from the sheriff’s vehicle. Bourquin also reportedly led authorities to a wooded area where one of the stolen bags was recovered.
Court records say damaged property included a rifle, shotgun and patrol-vehicle equipment, with damage estimated at more than $1,500.
Bourquin is charged with second-degree theft and second-degree criminal mischief—both felonies. He also faces third-degree burglary of a motor vehicle, attempted third-degree vehicle burglary and two counts of assault while displaying a dangerous weapon.
A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.