BIRCH BAY - Two teens have been arrested for allegedly breaking into a Birch Bay store and stealing nearly 30 packs of cigarettes earlier this summer, and the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is investigating whether the boys might be involved in a rash of area burglaries.
The two 14-year-olds were arrested on suspicion of second-degree burglary Thursday, Aug. 23, in connection with a June 27 break-in at Bay Center Market, on Harborview Road. Sheriff Bill Elfo said deputies had recently obtained new information linking the teens to the burglary.
In the past two months, there have been more than 25 thefts and burglaries reported in the Birch Bay area. Elfo said it appears that more than one group is responsible for the crimes. Deputies are investigating whether the boys are connected to the recent string of burglaries.
The teens were being held at Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Center. The Bellingham Herald does not publish the names of juveniles accused of property crimes.
Reach ZOE FRALEY at zoe.fraley@bellinghamherald.com or call 756-2803.
