Local burglar admits to probation violations, sentencing set for April 6

McCOOK, Neb. -- A local burglar sentenced to probation in 2013 admitted guilt to several violations last week in Red Willow County District Court. The offender, 20-year-old Joseph Sanchez, was subsequently scheduled for sentencing at 2 p.m. on April 6.

Sanchez admitted guilt to probation violations including violating a Scotts Bluff County protection order in November; failing to report to his probation officer in March and May of 2014; testing positive for marijuana in June of 2014; failing to pay probation fees; and failing to attend a Circle of Security parenting class, substance abuse counseling and obtain a mental health evaluation.

The probation violations also alleged Sanchez failed to submit bodily fluids at the request of his probation officer on 20 different occasions, however, that violation was dismissed.

Sanchez was originally sentenced to 30 months probation after being convicted of Class III felony burglary, stemming from the burglary of a Centennial Drive residence in McCook. He was arrested a day after the crime, thanks in part to the assistance of the victim and a watchful neighbor. The neighbor identified Sanchez as the person fleeing the scene of the crime and the victim subsequently spotted Sanchez's vehicle at a local jewelry store, where he was arrested a short while later.

During subsequent interviews with investigators Sanchez admitted to being the suspect sought in a West L Street incident during which he entered the back door of a residence and startled the homeowner. At the time he admitted to being responsible for reports of an individual going door to door in McCook, and in other Red Willow County communities, pretending to be looking for kids to participate in a baseball clinic. Sanchez said he used that and other guises, when doors he knocked on were answered by residents.