Bernard Frank, a transient who listed his home as the streets of Missoula, was charged with felony burglary on Wednesday, January 15, in justice court.

Frank, 60, appearing via video from the Missoula County jail, was in a wheelchair when he was questioned by Judge John Odlin. According to court documents, Frank shattered the glass in the front door of Murdoch's Ranch and Home on West Broadway early in the morning of January 14. He was apprehended across the street from the store still wearing a white leather coat with the Murdoch's tag attached, along with a leather belt. Frank told officers he was given the merchandise by "a long haired hippie that walked by on the sidewalk".

Deputy Missoula County Attorney Shaun Donovan asked Judge Odlin for $10,000 bail.

"I'm asking for bail of $10,000 for two reasons," Donovan said. "Principally, number one, the break-in. This caused significant damage to a local business. Second, the defendant's contacts with Missoula are pretty tenuous. He also has a number of charges since 2012, including a theft in Ravalli County. We just think that his appearance needs to be guaranteed by something monetary, and a cash bond is necessary."

Judge Odlin set bail at $10,000 for Frank, who was remanded to the jail.

Burglary is a felony that carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $50,000.

Frank's next court appearance will be January 29.

Deputy Missoula County Attorney Shaun Donovan

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