"Rock Burglar" Identified as 58-year-old Robert James Neese

According to Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, the man infamously known as the "Rock Burglar" is 58-year-old Robert James Neese.Neese was arrested this morning at a restaurant in south Phoenix.Arpaio says DNA evidence links Neese to some of the burglaries which include burglaries at the homes of former Vice President...

By James King

May 27, 2011

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According to Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, the man infamously known as the "Rock Burglar" is 58-year-old Robert James Neese.

Neese was arrested this morning at a restaurant in south Phoenix.

Arpaio says DNA evidence links Neese to some of the burglaries which include burglaries at the homes of former Vice President Dan Quayle, and former Diamondbacks players Steve Finley and Mark Grace.

The "Rock Burglar" is responsible for more than 340 burglaries of posh homes in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, and Carefree.

According to Arpaio, Neese netted more than $10 million in stolen goods during the 17 years police say he was active. He stole cash, watches, jewelry, silverware, firearms, and just about anything else that was easy to carry and easy to sell.

The "Rock Burglar's" calling card was to throw a big rock through a large picture window in a bedroom or living room, and entering the home through the hole.

During the burglaries, Neese moved fast and was out by the time police showed up.

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