Two Arrested For String of Burglaries & Vehicle Break-Ins – One Suspect Leads Police on Foot Chase

Cortland Police say their department has been continuously investigating a string of burglaries and car break-ins that occurred since November within the City of Cortland. CPD says though on the morning on Monday, December 23rd, the department received three reports of possible burglaries on Pleasant Street and Monroe Heights.

Officers and detectives responded to both areas and began their investigation looking for the suspect(s). Through the investigation, Cortland Police say their officers were able to track the movements of the burglars from their footprints in the snow. Police were able to locate both suspects at the Econo Lodge at 10 Church Street in Cortland.

Cortland Police identified both suspects as 34 year old Darrin M. Hayes and 26 year old Jamie L. Hartwick. Officers continued their work to find out which specific room both Hayes and Hartwick were staying in. When finding out which room it was, hotel staff informed police that the room the two suspects were in had not been rented and was closed for repairs.

After learning this information, officers made entry into the room and found both Hayes and Hartwick inside. As officers attempted to apprehend Hayes, he fled from the scene and led officers on a foot chase.

Hayes was eventually taken into custody after an extended chase on Main Street. Hartwick was taken into custody within the hotel room.

Further investigation in the case found Hayes was also responsible for at least ten other burglaries and thefts in the City of Cortland.

Officers charged Hayes with 6 Counts of Burglary in the 2nd, Burglary in the 3rd, 3 Counts of Grand Larceny in the 4th, 3 Counts of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 4th, all Felonies. He also faces misdemeanor charges of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 5th, 5 Counts of Petit Larceny, 2 Counts of Criminal Mischief in the 4th, Criminal Tampering in the 3rd, Resisting Arrest, and Obstruction of Gov. Admin.

The course of the investigation also led to the arrest of Jamie Hartwick on the charges of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 4th, a Felony, and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 5th, a Misdemeanor. While being booked, she provided officers with a false identity. After officers were able to properly identify Hartwick, she was additionally charged with the misdemeanor of Criminal Impersonation in the 2nd.

Cortland Police say Hartwick also had an outstanding warrant for her arrest from an unrelated charge. Both Hayes and Hartwick could face additional charges from the burglary and larceny investigation as Cortland police say other incidents may be connected to them with additional charges pending.

Hayes was remanded to Cortland County Jail on no bail and Hartwick was released on appearance tickets, but was handed over to the Sheriff’s Office to answer her warrant.