Cedar Rapids man accused of burglary, taking lottery tickets

CEDAR RAPIDS - Cedar Rapids police said a local man used less than legal means to get his lottery tickets.

Richard A. McElree, 41, of Cedar Rapids is accused of breaking into a convenience store and stealing lottery tickets and cigarettes. According to criminal complaints, McElree used an object to break out a window at the Hawkeye Convenience Store, 1581 First Ave. SE, just after midnight Wednesday morning. Once inside, police said McElree stole lottery tickets and cigarettes and ran from the store. His actions were caught on surveillance video.

Officers found McElree nearby and he resisted arrest. Once taken into custody, police said McElree had the stolen merchandise on him. He was also intoxicated, police said.

McElree was arrested and has been charged with third-degree burglary and interference with official acts.