Another man accused of breaking into Brasa on Grand Avenue last month has pleaded guilty to the charge.
Nicholas Alphonso Harris, 54, pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree burglary in Ramsey County District Court Monday morning, according to court documents.
Harris had previously pleaded not guilty.
Harris, Andre Donnell Ellis, 54, and Alvin Benex Collins, 60, were caught burglarizing the St. Paul restaurant Oct. 16 after the men slipped on the eatery’s slick floor while trying to run from police, according to criminal complaints.
The men smashed a window to get into the restaurant and then used a saw to cut a hole into the office. Police found a safe near a two-wheeled dolly, charges said.
A backpack left in the restaurant contained a reciprocating saw, saw blades, pliers, a flashlight and an extension cord. Ellis and Harris also had black gloves and additional tools on them, including a crowbar and a long screwdriver, the complaints said.
Harris is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 19.
His criminal history includes 12 prior felony convictions for burglary, possession of burglary or theft tools, theft and a felony violation of a controlled substance law.
His attorney could not be immediately reached for comment.
Collins pleaded guilty Nov. 14 and is also scheduled for sentencing Jan. 19. Ellis pleaded not guilty to the charge Nov. 7. His case is expected to go to trial later this winter.