Philipsburg burglar busted after three break-ins

Philipsburg, Pa. — A 19-year-old went on a two-day crime spree breaking into several properties throughout Centre County.

Lionel Gene Gilpatrick, of Philipsburg, was charged over three cases for breaking into three different places in early July, according to a complaint. Gilpatrick allegedly urinated on the floor of an apartment complex, broke into a church and made food, and opened a locked window to go into a building.

Gilpatrick spoke with police on July 6 after breaking into a building, Trooper Spencer Luciano said. A wrench could be seen hanging out of Gilpatrick’s pocket during the conversation with law enforcement, Luciano added.

Gilpatrick allegedly admitted to keeping belongings at the property, but claimed he never went inside. Police found the wrench, a socket, and smoking pipe with burnt marijuana during a search of Gilpatrick.

A second call involving Gilpatrick was made two days later by a property manager in Philipsburg, according to Luciano. Gilpatrick allegedly urinated on the floor of a common area at the complex. The property manager said Gilpatrick had been warned to stay off the property, Luciano wrote.

Gilpatrick was found sleeping on the floor in the same area where he relieved himself, according to the complaint.

The building will require professional cleaning due to the smell, Luciano said.

A final call was made the same day reporting Gilpatrick entered the Trinity United Methodist Church on Front Street, according to the affidavit. Gilpatrick allegedly got into the basement to cook food. He broke a lock causing $500 in damage, police said.

Gilpatrick is being charged with criminal trespassing, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal mischief, defiant trespassing, and disorderly conduct over three cases filed in Centre County. Unable to post bail, Gilpatrick is being held at the Centre County Prison. He is scheduled to appear for formal arraignments in August.

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