Yonkers Man Arrested After Being Found Hiding in Closet During New Rochelle Home Burglary

65-year-old Leonard Wisher was arrested after New Rochelle police found him hiding in a closet during a home burglary. Read the full details of the incident.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 12, 2026, 7:15 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from News 12

Swift Police Response to Burglary in Progress

A high stakes residential break in was thwarted in New Rochelle on Monday afternoon thanks to an alert neighbor and a rapid police intervention. Authorities were dispatched to a home located on Stephenson Boulevard after a witness reported hearing the distinct sound of breaking glass. The caller informed dispatchers that they had observed a man gaining entry to the residence through a large door window, prompting an immediate tactical response from local law enforcement.

Suspect Discovered Hiding in Second Floor Bedroom

Upon arriving at the scene, New Rochelle officers conducted a systematic search of the multi story dwelling. The search concluded on the second floor, where police located a suspect identified as Leonard Wisher. According to official reports, Wisher was found attempting to evade capture by hiding inside a bedroom closet. He was taken into custody without further incident, ending a tense standoff within the residential neighborhood.

Legal Charges and Property Damage

Leonard Wisher, a resident of Yonkers, now faces serious felony charges including burglary and criminal mischief. The latter charge stems from the property damage caused during the forced entry through the glass door window. Investigating officers confirmed that the homeowners were not present at the time of the break in, and the witness's timely report is credited with preventing any potential confrontation or the loss of personal property.