"Suspected Arsonists Allegedly Ignite PSEG Substations as Distraction for Burglary Spree in Suffolk County, According to District Attorney"

In Suffolk County Court on Tuesday, February 27, Frank Costa, aged 54, from Port Jefferson Station, and Jon Pucci, aged 29, from Middle Island, faced arraignment on charges related to arson. The legal proceedings underscored allegations against the two individuals, placing them in the spotlight for their purported involvement in arson and associated offenses.

Prosecutors claim that between December 2023 and February 2024, the accused individuals broke into nine Suffolk County businesses. The targeted establishments reportedly include six convenience stores, a laundry mat, and a deli, forming the basis of the charges against them.

Additionally, prosecutors assert that the accused duo deliberately ignited fires at PSEG Long Island substations in Terryville, Centereach, and Medford. This alleged act was purportedly orchestrated with the intent to trigger power outages and divert law enforcement attention, providing cover for their burglary activities.

Costa and Pucci were apprehended by Suffolk County Police on Saturday, February 10, following surveillance that led officers to a PSEGLI easement in Centereach. The arrest marked a significant development in the ongoing investigation into their suspected criminal activities.

During the search of the surrounding area, law enforcement officers reportedly discovered an ATM that had been pilfered from a Shell gas station in Ridge the previous day. Shockingly, cash from the stolen machine was purportedly found in the possession of both Costa and Pucci, further supporting the charges against them.

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney emphasized, "These alleged criminal acts have not only caused extensive damage but have also put the lives of Suffolk County residents and first responders at risk." Tierney's statement underscores the serious nature of the charges and the potential impact on the community.

Expressing gratitude, District Attorney Raymond Tierney stated, "I thank the Suffolk County Police Department for their thorough investigation of this case. Now, my office will ensure that these defendants are held accountable for their alleged extremely dangerous crimes." The commitment to accountability underscores the importance of pursuing justice in the face of the alleged criminal activities.

Costa and Pucci are each charged with the following:

• Nine counts of burglary (felonies)
• Three counts of arson (misdemeanors)
• Criminal possession of a weapon (felony)
• Three counts of criminal mischief (felonies)
• Attempted burglary (felony)
• Criminal possession of stolen property (felony)

Following his arraignment, Costa was ordered to be held at the Suffolk County jail on a $500,000 bond. Meanwhile, the case against Pucci remains pending, with further legal proceedings to determine the course of action.

Scheduled for further legal proceedings, both Costa and Pucci are set to appear back in court in March. The upcoming court dates will likely play a crucial role in determining the course of their cases.

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