Posted by: jpeach@baltimorecountymd.gov

Police discovered a burglar hiding in the attic of a home in Essex last night after a lengthy barricade situation.

Officers were initially dispatched to the home in the 900 block of Renfrew Street, 21221 for a burglary in progress around 12:55 p.m. when the homeowner called 9-1-1 upon seeing the burglar inside on surveillance cameras. The homeowner received a "person detected" mobile alert from his interior surveillance cameras, then watched a live feed of the suspect walking around inside his home.

Officers surrounded the home and challenged the suspect as he attempted to escape through a window, but the suspect retreated back inside. Police initiated a barricade situation, summonsing additional resources to the scene, and attempted to communicate with the suspect without success. Just after 10 p.m. tactical officers made entry into the home, located the suspect hiding in the attic and made the apprehension.

The burglar is identified as Devante James Riley, 26, of the 1700 block of McKean Avenue, 21217. He is charged with First and Fourth Degree Burglary in this case, as well as being served a warrant for his arrest on charges of First, Third, and Fourth Degree Burglary and Theft in another Baltimore County case. He is held on no bail status at the Baltimore County Detention Center following his initial court appearance this morning.