PD: man broke into shop, stole throwing star

BRISTOL, Conn. (WTNH) -- A Bristol man was arrested after allegedly breaking into a local gift shop and getting caught with cash and merchandise, including a martial arts weapon.

Police responded to a burglar alarm just before 1 a.m. Thursday, at Wasteland Gift Shop, located at 320 Terryville Rd.

Responding officers surrounded the building and found a lone male inside the business.

Police said the male, 29-year-old Derek N. Rupe, was identified as a burglary suspect and surrendered to police.

After investigating, police determined that the Rupe started a fire to weaken the exterior of the structure and assist him in gaining entry into the gift shop. Then after entering the building, he broke a water pipe, police said.

The damages to the building and merchandise equaled more than $1,500.

Additionally, police said Rupe was in possession of over $500 in cash and $48 in merchandise.

According to police, one of the stolen items found on Rupe was a martial arts weapon, a metal throwing star.

Rupe, of 35 Ruth St., unit #13, Bristol, was charged with third-degree burglary, possession of burglary tools, fifth-degree larceny, carrying a dangerous weapon, first-degree criminal mischief, and third-degree arson.

Rupe was held on a $50,000 bond.