Rasbert Turner, Star Writer

A man who allegedly broke into a house and stole items valued over $700,000 has been charged with housebreaking and larceny.

He is Steven Murdock, 34, unemployed of Guys Hill, St Catherine.

Murdock who recently returned from prison on a charge of sacrilege was formally charged on Tuesday.

Reports are that on August 13, the complainant locked up his house and went to bed.

Murdock allegedly broke into the house and stole a welding plant, compressor, chainsaw and other household appliances valued at $750,000.

A report was made to the Guys Hill police, and an investigation launched.

He reportedly ran away from the community and was held in the St Mary police area.

Murdock was subsequently taken into custody by the police and is to appear in the Linstead Resident Magistrate's Court today.