Bangor Man Charged for Attempted Burglary in Old Orchard Beach

19-year-old Austin Gardner faces multiple offenses after allegedly trying to break into a local business.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:31am

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A 19-year-old Bangor man named Austin Gardner has been charged with several offenses, including possession of burglary tools, aggravated criminal mischief, attempted burglary, operating after suspension, and violating his bail conditions, after allegedly attempting to burglarize a business in Old Orchard Beach, Maine last month.

Why it matters

Burglary and property crimes remain a persistent issue in many Maine communities, with repeat offenders often released on bail continuing to commit new crimes. This case highlights the challenges law enforcement and the justice system face in addressing these types of incidents and keeping communities safe.

The details

According to the Old Orchard Beach Police Department, Gardner allegedly approached a business on Ocean Park Road just after midnight on January 22 and attempted to break in. Surveillance footage showed a man in a dark coat, blue balaclava, and a backpack trying to gain entry, but he was unsuccessful and then fled the scene in a mid-2000s Ford F-150 truck. Gardner was already out on bail for nine prior sets of conditions when he allegedly committed this latest attempted burglary.

  • The alleged attempted burglary occurred just after 12 a.m. on January 22, 2026.
  • Gardner was arrested and charged following the incident.

The players

Austin Gardner

A 19-year-old man from Bangor, Maine who has been charged with multiple offenses related to an alleged attempted burglary in Old Orchard Beach.

Old Orchard Beach Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the alleged attempted burglary and filed charges against Austin Gardner.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to hold repeat offenders accountable and work to keep our communities safe.”

— Chief Mark O'Brien, Old Orchard Beach Police Chief

What’s next

Gardner is scheduled to appear in court on February 15th, where a judge will determine if he should be released on bail again or held without bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenges Maine communities face in addressing property crimes and repeat offenders, and the need for a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, the justice system, and community-based solutions to enhance public safety.