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Arrest made in string of South Boston break-ins

BOSTON — Boston police have arrested a 29-year-old in connection to a series of break-ins across South Boston.

Police released surveillance video of a person of interest in several break-ins they were investigating. In all cases, the suspect broke into the homes through open windows.

John McGahan's house was one of the homes broken into.

“It was quite unsettling and from friends and concerned neighbors about it," he told Boston 25 News after the arrest. "I’m glad he’s off the street and we’re safe."

>>ORIGINAL STORY: Police seek to identify person after 5 South Boston break-ins

On Thursday night, police were called to remove a man and woman who were sleeping in a hallway on West 9th Street. While trying to identify the man and woman, officers were alerted the man was a possible suspect in the recent break-ins and there was a warrant for his arrest out of Fall River. He was identified as 29-year-old Michael Hazel of Fall River. The outstanding warrant was for breaking and entering in the daytime.

McGahan said a wallet and two watches were stolen from his home but not recovered.

“My wife called me not that long ago and said she was notified that he didn’t have it on him and he traded it for narcotics," he said. “Hopefully he’ll deal with his issue and get some help.”

Police say Hazel was wearing the same clothes as the suspect shown in the surveillance video.

Hazel was arrested for the warrant and police are seeking additional charges in South Boston District Court for breaking and entering.