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                                     Press Release               June 7, 2010
 

On Friday, June 4th, Highland Police responded to a report of a “cold” burglary in the 3800 block of Highway Avenue.  While canvassing the neighborhood, police spoke with a neighbor whom had witnessed suspicious activity at the residence earlier in the day.  The neighbor stated a subject unknown to him was observed loitering out front of the residence and then disappeared around the back of the residence.  A short time later the neighbor heard glass breakage and observed the suspect depart carrying a black sack.  With this being the only lead information, Detective John Swisher took it upon himself to further canvass the hotels along 179th Street in Hammond. Hotel personnel stated a suspect matching the description was staying there and in fact had just paid for an additional nights stay.  Based upon this information, hotel video security was viewed and a suspect was identified.  With assistance from additional Highland detectives, surveillance was established and the suspect was taken into custody as he approached his hotel room.  A search warrant was obtained and items taken from the burglary were recovered, as were items believed to be taken from a previous burglary.  The suspect was identified as Anthony Gutierrez, 42, of East Chicago.  Gutierrez was just released in April from the Department of Corrections and is on parole for prior burglaries.  The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office charged Gutierrez thus far with one count of Felony Burglary and one count of Felony Possession of Cocaine.  Additional charges are likely.  Residents are always encouraged to contact police immediately should they suspect any suspicious activity by calling 911 or anonymously at 838-TIPS (8477).