Serial Burglar? Wayne County Man with 3 Past Convictions Charged in New Richmond Home Invasion
Richmond, IN — A Wayne County man with a lengthy criminal history is back in custody after allegedly breaking into a Richmond home earlier this week. The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Marcus D. Franklin of Cambridge City, is facing new felony charges following the Tuesday night incident.
Richmond Police responded to reports of a break-in at a residence on South 14th Street around 10:45 p.m. According to the homeowner, they arrived to find a rear window shattered and several electronics and valuables missing. Surveillance footage from a nearby property helped investigators identify Franklin as the primary suspect.
Franklin, who has three prior burglary convictions dating back to 2012, 2015, and 2019, was arrested Wednesday morning without incident at a relative’s home on the city’s north side. Officers recovered several stolen items, including a laptop and a gaming console, during the arrest.
“He’s no stranger to the justice system,” said Richmond Police Chief Mike Britt. “This is someone with a long track record of breaking into homes and stealing from hard-working people. It’s frustrating for both law enforcement and the community.”
Franklin is currently being held at the Wayne County Jail on charges of burglary, theft, and criminal mischief. Prosecutors say they may pursue enhanced sentencing due to his repeat offender status.
Neighbors in the area expressed concern and relief after the arrest. “It’s scary to think someone like that was in our neighborhood,” said longtime resident Karen Morris. “I’m just glad they caught him before someone got hurt.”
Franklin is scheduled to appear in Wayne County Circuit Court for an initial hearing later this week.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Richmond Police.