Man convicted in area burglaries

OCONTO - A Green Bay man is facing 50 years behind bars after being convicted of several area burglaries.

John Birk, 47, reached a plea deal this week with prosecutors. Birk plead guilty to one burglary in Outagamie County and three in Oconto County. Several other charges were dropped as part of the deal.

Prosecutors say Birk targeted gas stations, restaurants and grocery stores. They say in many cases, Birk would break in through a hole in the roof. They also say he would break into the store's ATM as well as coin operated game machines.

Prosecutors did not have a total for how much money was taken. However, they say the combined loss from property damage and thefts was "substantial."

Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said Birk's DNA, collected from one of the scenes, was the break in the case.

"Crimes like these harm local businesses but also threaten the feeling of safety for business owners, neighbors and the surrounding community," Attorney General Van Hollen said.  "I wish to thank those involved in this extensive investigation for working toward justice and accountability from those responsible for the crimes."

Sentencing is set for May 30th in Oconto County court.