D. C. Man charged in string of late-night store break-ins and robbery
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D.C. man charged in string of late-night store break-ins and robbery

Three targeted stores, one arrested suspect, and a trail of stolen property leave D.C. investigators searching for more answers.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A 31-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a robbery and two overnight burglaries that targeted D.C. convenience stores in late 2024, officials announced Monday.


Key Points

  • Three business crimes occurred in November 2024 across Northeast D.C.
  • Suspect James Lamont Patterson arrested and charged with robbery, burglary
  • Incidents involved forced entry and property theft from local establishments

The first incident took place on November 19 at approximately 2:58 a.m., when officers responded to a business alarm on the 5500 block of South Dakota Avenue NE. The suspects forced their way in and stole property before escaping.

Two days later, on November 21, police responded to two more incidents. At 12:24 a.m., a robbery was reported on the 4400 block of Benning Road NE, where suspects went behind the counter and took items from both the employee and the business. Later that same morning, around 1:55 a.m., another burglary occurred at a store on the 1300 block of 2nd Street NE.

Arrest follows months-long investigation

James Lamont Patterson of Northeast D.C. was arrested on Friday, April 4. He now faces two counts of Burglary in the Second Degree and one count of Robbery. Authorities did not say whether additional suspects are being pursued.

All three crimes occurred in the early morning hours, with police reports confirming alarms or employee calls prompted officer response at each scene.

Reward offered as investigation continues

The Metropolitan Police Department continues to investigate the incidents and is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for tips leading to further arrests or indictments. Anyone with information is urged to call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

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