Cop is convicted of theft

Brandon Hertular

Less than two weeks ago, an officer was sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of firearm and ammunition offenses.  Tonight, Police Constable Brandon Hertular, accused of burglarizing the residence of Shirley Chicas during a home invasion in March 2012, has been found guilty. The decision was handed down this morning by Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith after prosecutor Danella Hawke successfully proved all the elements of theft.  On March fourth, 2012 Hertular, dressed in camouflage, along with another individual, entered the premises in Buttonwood Bay and proceeded to steal a number of items, including a thousand, five hundred dollars in cash, as well as a nine millimeter pistol containing fifteen rounds.  Due to insufficient evidence to substantiate the charge of burglary, the prosecutor only pursued the charge of theft.  After declaring that the evidence against him was overwhelming, Hertular, who was represented by attorney Anthony Sylvester, was convicted.  Sentencing will be passed on Tuesday morning.