Break-in suspect still on the loose

NORTH EAST — After almost a month, police are still searching for the intruder who broke into a residence on Indian Lake Road.

The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. Friday, May 30, according to New York State Police Captain Keith Corlett.

Corlett said a lone assailant entered the residence of William Bolander at 286 Indian Lake Road. The man, who is described as being a tall, African-American male in his teens to early 20s, tied three family members with plastic ties. The suspect also stabbed Francis Bolander, 43, with a knife, leaving him with four stab wounds in his back.

One hour later, the suspect left the premises and the family managed to call police.

Francis Bolander was taken to Sharon Hospital in neighboring Connecticut before he was transferred to Albany Medical Center. He has since been treated and released.

Corlett said he would not release the names of the other victims, but said they are all related to Bolander.

During an investigation by the state police, Kenneth Bolander, 20, who lives at the residence, was arrested after illegal narcotics were found at the home.

Bolander was charged with possession of narcotics in the third degree. He was released on $5,000 bail and Corlett said further charges are pending.

On Tuesday, Corlett said there were no new developments in the case.

"However, there are some strong leads we are pursuing," Corlett said. "We still believe that Kenneth Bolander’s activities are the catalyst for the home invasion. We are still pulling phone records and trying to see who his acquaintances are."

North East town Supervisor Dave Sherman said residents are "uncomfortable" that the perpetrator in the case has not yet been caught.

"I’m sure that people who are otherwise living in a quiet section of a country are somewhat concerned about this incident occurring in their neighborhood, and I understand their concerns," Sherman said. "I have no recollection of an event similar to this happening in North East."

A police sketch was made of the suspect after the incident. In early June, Corlett said the department would not release the sketch.

On Tuesday, Corlett once again said the sketch would not be released to the public, restating that the department is not confident that the sketch is accurate.

Anyone with knowledge about the incident is asked to call state police at 845-877-3660.