Pocono News Section

Man Arrested for Three Community Crime Spree in Lackawanna County

Man Arrested for Three Community Crime Spree in Lackawanna County - Friday, January 22, 2010 at 6:24PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Friday, Jan 22, 2010 @ 06:24pm EST
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY - A homeless man is facing a slew of charges in connection with a crime spree in three communities. Police have charged Jonathon DiFraia of committing crimes in Scranton, Dickson City and Dunmore.

All of the crimes have taken place since October 2009.

DiFraia said nothing to Eyewitness News as he was taken out for his arraignment just before 5:00 PM Friday night.

Scranton police say he was caught Thursday night after trying to break into cars.

Here's a detailed list of his crime spree:

October 28: Cafe Beignet in Scranton
Police say he broke into the business and stole nearly $400 as well as a computer. According to court papers, investigators say he was a former worker there and was mad because the owner was not paying him. The owner says he was terminated.

December 7: Convenient Mini-Mart on Prescott Avenue in Scranton
Police say DiFraia used a gun to try and rob the store along with two other people. They didn't get away with any money. The reason is because DiFraia was a regular customer and he was friendly with the clerk. When he pointed the gun at the clerk he allegedly saw "fear in his face."

December 7: Turkey Hill on Main Street in Dickson City
Because the three suspects didn't get any cash in Scranton, police say they tried to rob the Mini Mart on Main Street in neighboring Dickson City. Police say one shot was fired in the hold-up. No one was hurt.

December 11: Valero Gas Station in Dunmore
The final crime that DiFraia is charged with is a robbery at the Valero Gas Station in Dunmore. Police say after that robbery he claimed he threw away the gun.

DiFraia is locked-up tonight in Lackawanna County.