A Suspected Campsite Near a Bangor Store Was Hiding Stolen Stuff

Bangor Police say what was believed to be a campsite behind Hammond Lumber Company was actually a bunch of items stolen from the store.

How Were the Stolen Items Discovered?

It was almost a brilliant way to hide stolen goods. Tent communities are popping up all over Bangor, so a group of tent-like tarps probably wouldn't warrant a second glance. But when an employee of Hammond Lumber Company, 1087 Hammond Street in Bangor noticed the tarps after a burglary at the business Tuesday morning, April 25th, it warranted closer inspection. Police were called to the business at around 6:30 that morning and found that the tarps were actually covering up items that had been stolen from Hammond Lumber.

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Who Is the Suspect?

As Bangor detectives and evidence technicians worked to process the scene, they encountered a man riding an ATV in a grassy area between two businesses. At the time, police had evidence to suggest that a person on an ATV may have been involved with the Hammond Lumber burglary. Both the ATV and its rider fit the descriptions.

When police approached Christopher Archer, 36, of Hampden, he fled on foot. A brief pursuit ensued, but he was quickly taken into custody. The ATV he was riding was then found to have been stolen from another nearby business.

What Charges Does He Face?

Christopher Archer was taken to the Penobscot County Jail on initial charges:

• Refusal to submit to arrest
• Criminal Mischief
• Receiving stolen property

After an investigation into burglaries at four Bangor businesses, the charges against Archer were increased, by the Penobscot County District Attorney's Office to include:

• Theft by unauthorized taking - Felony
• Burglary - 4 counts
• Theft by unauthorized taking - misdemeanor
• Criminal Mischief

This investigation is ongoing.