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Man Accused in String of Burglaries in Lansford

LANSFORD — A string of burglaries in Carbon County is being blamed on one man. He’s now headed to trial on charges he broke into homes and businesse...

LANSFORD -- A string of burglaries in Carbon County is being blamed on one man. He's now headed to trial on charges he broke into homes and businesses in Lansford, including the home of a cop.

"I apologize to the people that I hurt," said Joseph Zarsky from Nesquehoning leaving a court appearance in Lansford.

Zarsky is now headed to trial on charges he broke into at least eight homes and businesses in the borough between July and October of 2014.

"Unfortunately our town was held hostage by his activities last summer," said Lansford Police Sgt. Jack Soberick.

Lansford police say Zarsky stole more than $1,000 during the burglaries. At least four took place on West Abbott Street.

"He would cut screens or manipulate locks to defeat them so he could gain entry without it being easily detected," Sgt. Soberick explained.

Police say Zarsky targeted businesses and homes. Even the police sergeant in charge of the case became a victim.

"I was working night shift and my house was one of the ones that was burglarized."

Sgt. Soberick says Zarsky didn't steal much from his home, but knowing that someone was able to break in bothered him.

"When somebody comes into your home, it's a violation. It's like an animal defecates in your house, the smell doesn't go away. Fortunately, the person can."

Lansford police say there were more than 80 burglaries last year in the Carbon County community, which is more than normal.

Although Zarsky is charged with eight break-ins, he wouldn't tell Newswatch 16 if he was involved in more.

Police and the district attorney's office say it's likely Zarsky will spend a lot of time behind bars if he's convicted.

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