Two individuals have been charged by state police in relation to a string of bar burglaries that occurred in various counties in southwestern Pennsylvania.
David Alan Rice and Stephanie Denise Hankle were accused by the police of breaking into twelve bars in Fayette, Washington, and Westmoreland counties in 2023.
The businesses that were targeted include The Darkhorse Saloon, Brenda Lee’s Bar, June Bug’s, Starlite Bar, Slavonic Club, Coal Hill Tavern, Russ’ Tavern, The Watering Hole, Allenport Marina, Black Diamond VFW, and Cloverleaf.
Hankle was found to be driving Rice to the bars, where they would scout locations and assess the security measures.
After the bars closed, police claim that Hankle would drop off Rice, who would then find his way inside. According to reports, Rice allegedly took several items while inside and directed Hankle to pick him up.
State police have reported that Rice has been involved in a series of thefts over the course of the year. These thefts have included a range of items such as cash, money bags, coins, poker machine proceeds, an entire ATM, and even alcohol.
Authorities have reported that Rice and Hankle were responsible for stealing a total of $17,517.21 and causing approximately $8,000 in damages to the 12 bars.
The investigation by state police is still ongoing.
