Crime & Safety

Man Stole, Sold Gun 'For a Place to Live,' Police Say

A Warminster woman returned home from a party to discover her house had been burglarized, including a hand gun and ammunition.

A warrant has been issued for a Philadelphia man after police say he broke into a couple's home in Warminster Heights, stole a hand gun and its ammunition, then sold it for some quick cash.

Samuel Smith, 32, has been accused of removing an air conditioner from the window of a home on Rush Street in Warminster and entering the house on June 8. Police say he removed $450 in cash, 83 tablets of a prescription medication and a black case containing a Springfield Model XD 9mm pistol, two magazines, speed loaders, a holster and 32 rounds of ammunition.

The couple told police that Smith, an acquaintance, had texted them at 6:45 p.m. that day, asking if they would be around. They had left that morning for a party and were still there when Smith texted, according to the report. When one of the homeowners returned at 10:30 p.m., she noticed that the items were missing.

She called and texted Smith several times about the thefts, the affidavit says. Smith initially admitted taking the items but denied breaking into the house, police say. At one point, Smith texted, "Im sorry I sold it so sorry I needed the money for a place to live so I wont be on the streets," according to the report. The victim confirmed with Smith over the phone that he was referring to the handgun, the report says.

During another phone conversation, Smith openly spoke with the victim about removing the air conditioner, entering the home and taking the hand gun, which he then sold, according to police.

There are no records of Smith's arrest at this time. He faces six felony charges, including burglary, criminal trespass, receiving stolen property and carrying a firearm without a license.


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