Two charged in Belmont attempted burglary

BELMONT — Zachary Lucas, of East Wakefield, and Vanessa Cardillo, of Franklin, were charged with burglary by Belmont police Saturday, after a homeowner reportedly saw them entering and exiting their home through a Ring doorbell camera.

Lucas, 34, and Cardillo, 39, allegedly entered a house at 261 Leavitt Road, at approximately 2:26 p.m. on March 8, according to a press release from town police.

Upon arrival, the officers located a black Subaru in the driveway, with Lucas and Cardillo inside. Officers determined the pair had found the residence listed on Airbnb, and drove there intending to burglarize it. They entered through the breezeway and garage, attempting to steal tools and other miscellaneous items. They were unable to flee after their vehicle broke down in the driveway, according to the release.

The suspects were taken into custody without incident, and the vehicle was seized pending a search warrant.

The police department release reminded people of proactive measures to protect their property, including using home security systems and cameras, keeping doors, windows and garages locked, reporting suspicious activity immediately, and being cautious with rental listings. They also highlighted the homeowner’s promptness.

“The Belmont Police Department commends the homeowner for remaining vigilant and immediately contacting law enforcement upon noticing suspicious activity,” the release read.