A Locke man has been charged after Cayuga County deputies said he broke into a tenant’s residence during a landlord-tenant dispute earlier this week.
Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck said deputies arrested Michael R. Tibbits, 62, of Locke, on May 4 following an investigation in the Town of Locke.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 8:56 a.m. to a reported dispute involving a landlord and tenant at a residence in Locke.
Investigators said Tibbits, identified as the victim’s landlord, allegedly broke the front door and forced his way into the residence. Deputies also said the victim attempted to call 911, but Tibbits allegedly tried to take the phone from her to stop her from contacting emergency services.
Deputies later located Tibbits at another address and took him into custody.
Tibbits was charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief and second-degree criminal trespass.
Authorities said he was processed at the Cayuga County Public Safety Building before being arraigned in Cayuga County Centralized Arraignment Part court. Tibbits was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in Locke Town Court on May 20.
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