WARREN, Ohio — A repeat offender with a long criminal history has been sentenced to nine years in prison for a string of thefts, burglaries, and break-ins that occurred in Champion Township in 2023, according to the Trumbull County Prosecutor’s Office.
Harold Michaels, 51, pleaded guilty in July to two felony burglary charges and three counts of breaking and entering. Judge Sarah T. Kovoor imposed the maximum consecutive prison terms, citing Michaels’ extensive criminal record, which includes nine prior felony convictions and seven previous prison sentences.
Before sentencing, two victims addressed the court, saying they felt “violated” by the crimes. Michaels was ordered to pay over $10,000 in restitution.
“These people will never feel safe again because of you,” Judge Kovoor told him, calling his actions “despicable.”
Michaels was arrested in October 2024 by Warren Police on a warrant issued by Champion Police following a crime spree that involved multiple break-ins. According to Champion Police Chief Larry Skaggs, Michaels broke into garages, stole thousands of dollars in tools and equipment, stole a vehicle to move the items, and later set the vehicle on fire.
He initially faced multiple felony charges, including arson, but a grand jury declined the arson charge in December 2024.
