FRANKLIN TWP. — A three-week investigation into a burglary at a Howard Avenue residence has led to an arrest.

The burglary of a shed at the residence occurred on Dec. 24. The victim reported several power tools and landscaping equipment had been stolen, police said.

During the investigation, officers learned that  Ernest Girtain Jr., 28, who was renting the residence, had sold several items at a South Jersey pawn shop, said police.

Girtain allegedly admitted entering the shed, which was off limits to him according to the terms of his lease, and removing almost all of the tools and equipment, police said.

Most of the stolen items were recovered and returned to the victim, said police.

Girtain was charged with burglary and theft, served with a complaint summons, and released pending a court appearance, police said.

Detective Warren Rivell investigated the case. Anyone with similar thefts in the Howard Avenue area is urged to contact police at 856-694-1415,, ext. 4.