January 5th, 2026 by WCBC Radio

On December 29, 2025, Dep. Crites, with the Allegany County Sheriff's Office received a criminal complaint regarding a burglary at the Biederlack Facility. Several irreplaceable items were reported stolen, including a one-of-a-kind copper pot, and several antique toys, having an estimated value of $7,000. Within two days, Dep. Clites identified the suspect as Russel Leroy Michael (43 of Lonaconing, MD). Dep. Crites investigation led to the recover of the majority of the stolen property, including the copper pot. Mr. Russel is currently awaiting trial at the Allegany County Dention Center. 

Anyone who may have recently purchased items on the Facebook market place from "Zay Michael" is asked to contact Dep. Crites at 301-777-1585.

Mr. Russell had been charged with Burglary, and theft. Additional charges are pending.