HAZARD – One of two men charged in a string of burglaries across Central and Eastern Kentucky was sentenced this week to serve the next 10 years in prison.

Joshua Abner, 24, of Waco, Ky., was indicted in Perry County along with Richmond resident Phillip Wells for his part in the February burglary of the Hazard Little Caesar’s restaurant in which two men wearing masks broke into the store’s safe and stole approximately $2,600.

Police investigating the break-in noted that the perpetrators were likely responsible for several other burglaries in the region, all of which occurred during the same time period and under similar circumstances.

Abner pleaded guilty to third-degree burglary, first-degree criminal mischief and theft by unlawful taking over $500 in exchange for a total of 10 years to serve. An additional count of first-degree persistent felony offender was dismissed, and he will also be required to pay $1,000 in restitution.

Abner’s sentence was announced on Thursday, which will be served concurrently with sentences in several counties including Hardin, Pendleton, Laurel, Powell and others.