WESTPORT — A Stratford man suspected of burglarizing a Riverside Avenue gas station and stealing more than $3,500 worth of smoking products was arrested this week after a 15-month investigation.

Thomas Moccaie, 41, was charged May 1 with third-degree burglary, third-degree larceny, first-degree criminal mischief and conspiracy to commit third-degree burglary in connection with the February 2022 incident.

Police were alerted to a break-in at Riverside Sunoco, 240 Riverside Ave., about 4:40 a.m. Feb. 2, 2022. 

An intruder gained entry by smashing glass in the front door, and targeting tobacco and smoking merchandise, stole cigarettes and vaping devices valued at approximately $3,600, according to the police report.

Police detectives launched an investigation, which included gathering swabs of DNA from the scene.

A stolen vehicle, recorded by video surveillance leaving the scene on the morning of the break-in, was found in Bridgeport last February, police said.

Investigators reportedly found items linked to the burglary in the vehicle, and with DNA evidence and surveillance footage, identified Moccaie as the break-in suspect.

An arrest warrant was issued and Moccaie was formally charged Monday at state Superior Court in Stamford. He was held on bond initially set at $50,000.

Moccaie’s next court appearance on the charges is scheduled July 18.