Early Morning Break-In Leads to Arrest in Jefferson County
Homeowner Confronts Intruder Before Police Make Arrest Nearby
CHAMPION, NY — A Carthage man is facing felony charges after an early morning burglary in the town of Champion on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
State Police responded around 4:40 a.m. to a home on State Route 3 after a resident called 911 to report a break-in. The homeowner told troopers they caught a man inside their home stealing items. When confronted, the suspect ran off.
Troopers searched the area and soon found a man matching the description walking through nearby woods. He was taken into custody and later identified by the homeowner as the person seen inside the house.
The suspect, 38-year-old Philip E. Winkemplek, was arrested and charged with Burglary in the Second Degree, a Class C felony under New York State law. This charge typically applies to burglaries involving occupied dwellings, making it more serious than standard property crimes.
Winkemplek was arraigned in Jefferson County CAP Court and sent to jail. The judge set bail at $10,000 cash, $15,000 bond, or a $20,000 partially secured bond.
There were no injuries reported during the incident, and the investigation is ongoing. Police have not released details about what items may have been taken or recovered.
This marks the latest in a string of break-ins across rural New York communities. Law enforcement officials continue to remind residents to keep homes locked, even overnight, and to report suspicious activity immediately.
