BRIDGEWATER - A second teen charged in connection with a series of late December thefts from cars in a residential area of Bridgewater made his first court appearance on the allegations January 5.

 The 16 year old faces 31 charges from December 29 - 13 counts of prowling at night, seven counts of theft, seven counts of possessing stolen property, one allegation of property damage and three counts of breaching earlier release conditions by failing to keep the peace, breaking his curfew and associating with someone with a criminal record.

 The teen didn't seem clear on what he wanted to do about the allegations when he appeared in court last Wednesday.

 Judge Gregory Lenehan suggested he should seek legal representation.

 "That's very serious stuff. You really should speak to a lawyer," Judge Lenehan said.

 He adjourned the case until February 2 to give the boy time to apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid.

 Bridgewater Police arrested two teens early December 29 after a resident of Cherry Lane heard a car alarm and saw someone running from the area.

 Officers later canvassed the area and discovered at least 17 vehicles had been entered on DesBrisay Drive, Olympiad Avenue, Cherry Lane, Sunset Drive, Smith Avenue and Cresthaven Court.

 The other boy, a 17 year old, faces similar allegations. He was released from custody following a December 30 bail hearing and is due back in court January 19.

posted on 01/11/11