Man arrested in theft spree

A 23-year-old Bainbridge man faces charges in a burglary spree of nearly two-dozen thefts in west Bainbridge neighborhoods, police say.

Michael Z. Casterline, 23, of Olympic Terrace Avenue is being held in the Kitsap County Jail on $75,000 bail, Bainbridge Police Detective Scott Anderson said.

Casterline was arrested early Sunday morning.

On Friday, two west Bainbridge families reported that their homes had been entered and prescription medications and personal electronic items stolen.

Casterline, said by police to be a neighbor of the victims, was identified as a suspect. He denied involvement but agreed to undergo further questioning and a truth verification test.

On Saturday, Casterline was confronted with additional evidence collected during the investigation, and admitted to 22 residential burglaries around Olympic Terrace and outlying neighborhoods, police said.

The suspect said he typically entered homes through unlocked doors and windows to steal prescription drugs and alcohol for his own use.

Also stolen were laptop computers, iPod music players, cameras, cash and jewelry.

It was unclear from police reports how long the burglary spree had been going on.

– Review staff

Stolen items to be returned

From iPods to insurance documents, all kinds of items were taken during recent car prowls across the island.

Now, following the recent arrests of several individuals suspected of the thievery, Bainbridge Police will hold an open house to try to reconnect stolen items with their rightful owners.

The police station will open its doors between 4 and 7 p.m. Oct. 27 as part of the effort. Detective Mo Stich said only those who were victimized during September should attend.

Victims must have a case number and photo identification to claim property. Receipts or other distinguishing documents that would help link owners to their property should be brought as well.

Car keys, cameras, briefcases and various electronic adapters are among the items waiting to be claimed.

Stich also reminded people that all items still must be treated as evidence, and asked people to be patient and respect the directions of officers at the event.

“We’ve recovered a lot of property,” Stich said. “Whenever this much stuff comes in it takes a lot of time to sort through it.”

– Chad Schuster