Updated: 11/23/2009 11:20 PM KSTP.com | Print |  Email
By: Bay Scroggins & Becky Nahm

Trail of Stolen Goods Led St. Paul Police to Suspect

A suspected thief left a trail behind that St. Paul police said led them to his front door.

John Howard-Schlesky was arrested and charged in a burglary at the Grand Hand Gallery on Grand Avenue late Friday night.

Police said Howard-Schlesky smashed the front door, grabbed what he could and took off.

St. Paul police Sgt. Paul Schnell said a witness called 911 and police followed a trail of hangers and clothes down Grand Avenue to an apartment.

Officers broke down the door. Howard-Schlesky was allegedly inside surrounded by stolen clothing.

Investigators believe Howard-Schlesky may be responsible for more than 30 break-ins along Grand Avenue and in the Highland Park, Merriam Park and Como Park Areas. They also believe he may have had a partner.

The investigation uncovered another concern. Police said they found a map to a police officer's home inside the apartment.

The officer and Howard-Schlesky had a previous encounter. Investigators are trying to determine what he was planning.