NEWBURYPORT, Mass. — Police in Massachusetts are investigating whether an antique store owner accused of breaking into homes in New Hampshire was selling items he allegedly stole at his boutique.

Richard Morrell was held on $10,000 cash bail after pleading not guilty to a charge of receiving stolen property at his arraignment Thursday. He was arrested at gunpoint Wednesday.

Morrell and his wife run a store called Vintage Diva in downtown Newburyport that describes itself as a seller of antiques, vintage clothing and home decor.

Authorities tell the Daily News of Newburyport that Morrell is suspected of breaking into homes in the New Hampshire communities of Lebanon, Enfield and Grantham.

Investigators are checking items seized from the store to see if they match items reported stolen.

Police say Morrell has prior burglary convictions in New York, Vermont and Florida.


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