Two Clinton teens, one who was arrested earlier this month, have been charged with breaking and entering of a local residence, and one of the two is also facing arson charges after being accused of trying to burn down the home that was robbed.

Irineo Rodriguez, III, 16, of 362 Old Mill Branch Road, Clinton, and Eduardo Barrera, 17, of 234 Rena Lane, Clinton, were each charged separately with breaking and entering; larceny after breaking and entering and possession of stolen goods. Rodriguez was also charged with second degree arson after he allegedly attempted to burn down the single wide mobile home he and Barrera broke into on Aug. 16.

In addition to the damage of the home, a 50-inch television, valued at $700, was taken from the residence. No injuries were reported in the incident.

Through evidence, witness statements and investigative work, Rodriguez and Barrera became the prime suspects in the case, sheriff’s officials noted.

Rodriguez was placed under a $20,000 bond and given a trial date of Sept. 3; Barrera was placed under a $10,000 bond and made his first appearance in court Friday.

On Aug. 6, Barrera was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and resisting a public officer.

According to reports from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, Barrera knowingly hid an unidentified female juvenile, listed as a runaway, at his residence while telling law enforcement officials that she was not there and he didn’t know her whereabouts. She was later found hiding under his bed; he was also allegedly having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl.

According to the North Carolina Department of Corrections, neither Barrera nor Rodriguez have previous convictions.

To reach Doug Clark call 910-592-8137 ext. 123 or send e-mail to sisports@heartlandpublications.com.