Three Men Arrested After Alert Neighbor Reports Burglary in Progress on Country Club Drive

AUBURN, Maine — An alert neighbor is being credited with helping police intercept a residential burglary in progress on Country Club Drive, resulting in the immediate arrest of three men at the scene. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, April 29, 2025.

According to the Auburn Police Department, officers responded to a call at approximately 11:00 a.m. regarding suspicious individuals at a home on Country Club Drive. Upon arrival, officers observed two women sitting inside a Subaru parked near the property. A quick registration check revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Waterville more than a week prior.

As officers approached the house, they observed three men exiting the building. Investigators determined that the men had gained entry by shattering a window at the rear of the residence. When questioned, the suspects claimed they had been hired by the homeowners to retrieve personal belongings. However, police contacted the property owner, who verified that no one had permission to be on the premises.

A search of the suspects and the stolen vehicle uncovered multiple knives, suspected stolen jewelry, and 39 suboxone strips. The three suspects were taken into custody and transported to the Androscoggin County Jail. Robert Hermanson, 31, was charged with theft by unauthorized taking and violating conditions of release. Casey Braley, 32, was charged with burglary, unlawful possession of scheduled drugs, and violating conditions of release. Marcus Valencia, 43, was charged with burglary.

The Chief of Police commended the neighbor's swift action, emphasizing the critical role community members play in neighborhood watch efforts. "This is a textbook example of 'see something, say something' working to prevent crime," police said in a statement.