Anamosa man charged with several robberies

     A 23-year-old Anamosa man has been arrested and is facing numerous charges stemming from a string of break-ins in Anamosa on Jan. 14 and 15.

     According to criminal complaints from Anamosa law enforcement, Luther Joe Gilbert broke into several Anamosa businesses in that timeframe: El Tapatio, a Mexican restaurant located at 300 W. Main St.; Daly Creek Winery, 106 N. Ford St.; and Serendipity Salon, 106 Maquoketa St.

     Records state that Gilbert broke into El Tapatio through the window of a door on the northeast side of the building. While inside, two bottles of liquor was stolen. It appeared that no cash was taken from the premises.

     Gilbert confessed to breaking into Daly Creek Winery by scaling the wooden fence and breaking the patio glass door. He used a pry bar to attempt to break into the safe inside the establishment. Daly Creek reported a total of $613.50 missing.

     At Serendipity, it appeared Gilbert broke in through the front door glass window. An employee stated the only thing missing was money from the cash register. When the owner of the salon went to review footage of the break-in, she noticed the cord to the camera was cut.

     In all three businesses, there is also damage to exterior doors and windows, as well as damage to the safe at Daly Creek.

     In all, Gilbert is being charged with four counts of 3^rd degree burglary, three counts of 3^rd degree theft, two counts of 3^rd degree criminal mischief, obstructing prosecution/defense, 2^nd degree criminal mischief, and possession of burglar’s tools.

     In addition, Gilbert faces charges of possession of marijuana 1^st offense and possession of drug paraphernalia.