Rice Township, Pennsylvania – Three residents from northeastern Pennsylvania are facing multiple felony charges after police say they burglarized two vacant homes in Rice Township, including one left unoccupied following the death of its owner. Investigators allege the crimes occurred over several weeks late last year and into early January.
Incident Overview
According to police, the suspects targeted two unoccupied single-family homes in Rice Township, exploiting the fact that both properties were vacant at the time. One of the homes had recently become empty due to the death of the resident, a detail investigators say made the crime particularly troubling.
Authorities allege that the burglaries resulted in the theft of numerous household items and personal property, much of which was later recovered during a search connected to the investigation.
Timeline of Events
Police state that the first burglary occurred sometime between December 20 and January 5, when suspects allegedly broke into a vacant residence and removed property. During the investigation of that incident, officers uncovered evidence suggesting the same individuals were responsible for a second burglary at another unoccupied home in the township.
As the investigation expanded, detectives obtained additional information that led them to execute a search warrant connected to one of the suspects.
Details From Police and Investigators
The suspects identified by police are Bryan Fairfax-Columbo, 36, of Lake Ariel, Michael Rich Schmaeling, 39, of White Haven, and Melissa Washney, 36, of Mountain Top.
Investigators say a search of Washney’s home on Church Road uncovered what they described as “a significant amount of the stolen items.” In addition to the allegedly stolen property, police reported finding illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia inside the residence.
Charges Filed Against the Suspects
All three defendants were charged with burglary, criminal mischief, and theft in connection with the alleged break-ins.
In addition to those charges:
- Melissa Washney was also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and child endangerment
- Bryan Fairfax-Columbo faces an additional charge of possession of drug paraphernalia
- Michael Rich Schmaeling was charged solely in connection with the burglaries and related offenses
Police have not released further details about the children involved in the child endangerment charge.
Court Proceedings and Bail Status
All three suspects were arraigned last week, according to court records.
Bail was set as follows:
- Fairfax-Columbo was released on $25,000 unsecured bail
- Schmaeling was jailed after being unable to post $100,000 bail
- Washney remains jailed with bail set at $30,000
Future court dates are expected to be scheduled as the cases move through the legal process.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
Police say burglaries involving vacant homes are a recurring issue, particularly during periods when properties are left unattended for extended periods. Homes that are empty due to relocation, hospitalization, or the death of a resident can become targets for criminal activity if not monitored.
Law enforcement officials encourage neighbors to report suspicious activity, especially around properties known to be vacant, and to consider simple preventative measures such as exterior lighting, regular property checks, and coordination with local authorities.
Conclusion
The investigation into the Rice Township burglaries highlights how quickly vacant homes can become targets for theft and related crimes. With multiple felony charges filed and stolen property recovered, police say the case underscores the importance of community awareness and timely reporting.
If you live in the area and have experienced similar incidents or have tips that could help prevent property crimes, share your experiences in the comments below.
