Just Out of Prison, Suspect Charged With Multiple Burglaries
On Tuesday, November 30, 2010, at approximately 9:39 A.M., deputies with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded to 100 Leeland Heights Boulevard, Lehigh Acres, in reference to a just occurred residential burglary. Upon arrival, deputies learned the suspect, identified as Paul Edwin Townsend (DOB 3/1/88), attempted to break into the home through a window but was caught in the act by one of the home’s occupants. The alleged victim called 911 while Townsend left the scene. He was apprehended moments later by responding deputies.
Through the course of the investigation, deputies learned that Townsend had been released from prison in September and was picking up right where he left off. Investigators learned he was responsible for a burglary that occurred in Lehigh Acres on November 5, 2010 at the home of a law enforcement officer. Multiple DVD’s and coins were stolen during the incident. Investigators also linked Townsend to a burglary that occurred on November 19, 2010 at 704 Leeland Heights Boulevard. During that incident, Townsend entered the home of a military veteran and stole his Purple Heart, Silver Star and Vietnam Combat Ribbon, before throwing the medals into a neighbor’s trash can.
Townsend has been charged with two counts of Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling, one count of Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling, two counts of Larceny/Grand Theft and one count of Possession of Burglary Tools.
His most recent address is listed as 838 Sunrise Boulevard, Lehigh Acres. He is currently in the Lee County Jail. Booking photos and additional information can be found on the Sheriff’s Office website at www.sherifflelfl.org under Arrest & Inmates / Search Lee County Arrests, after processing.