Robert Jay Smoke
Photo: Stutsman County Correctional Center

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A Hogansburg, NY man was arrested following a reported burglary Monday, July 4th.

Jamestown Police report that just before 10 PM, officers were called to the 400 block of 4 St NE to investigate a report of a residence being burglarized.

“The resident was not home at the time of this break-in, but was notified by a concerned neighbor,” Major Justin Blinsky reported.

Officers responded to find a window had been smashed out to gain entry into the dwelling. During the investigation, it was determined several electronic devices had been stolen from inside the residence and the suspect had left before officers arrived. A description of the male suspect was obtained from a witness.

Other responding officers located a male inside a nearby residence, matching the previously obtained description of the burglary suspect. The suspect was still in possession of the stolen electronic devices, which were recovered. A security video system also assisted in identifying the suspect.

“It is not known at this time if the victim and suspect know one another, but it is believed the suspect has resided in this area previously,” Major Blinsky added.

The male suspect was identified as 55-year-old Robert Jay Smoke of Hogansburg, NY. Smoke was arrested on suspicion of Burglary. He was transported to Stutsman County Corrections and has been formally charged with Burglary, Theft of Property, and Criminal Mischief.