DNA leads police to suspect in 2013 Rices Landing burglary
A suspect was identified last week in a 2013 burglary after police conducted DNA analysis of blood left on the scene at the Rices Landing house.
Jonathan Chaz Balazick, 31, of Rices Landing allegedly broke into his neighbor’s house Oct. 9, 2013, by breaking a rear window. Police said he cut his elbow in the process. State police in Greene County issued a warrant for his arrest.
He allegedly stole gold jewelry, cash and documents with a total value of about $1,000 from Cheryl Donaldson. Police found a bank bag labeled “Cheryl” and other items during a search of Balazick’s mother’s house, four days after the robbery.
He was arrested for a theft at Giant Eagle in Dry Tavern the day after the burglary, but denied involvement in the Donaldson burglary. At his arrest Oct. 10, police said he had a “significant laceration” on his elbow.
State police applied for a search warrant for a DNA sample in March 2016.
He is charged with burglary, theft, criminal trespass and receiving stolen property. Charges were filed Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge D. Glenn Bates.