Police: Man tried 2 robberies in less than an hour

James Brouillard

ROCHESTER - A Rochester man is under arrest after police say he attempted two robberies in two different towns in less than an hour on Monday.

James Brouillard, 52, of 105 Whitehouse Road #24, was arrested at his residence a short time after the incidents after witnesses described to police the getaway vehicle which belongs to the suspect.

The bizarre string of events began around 4 p.m. when police say Brouillard walked into the Monster Gas Station on South Main Street, showed a knife to the clerk and demanded money but left empty-handed.

Less than an hour later, Somersworth police were called to Rouria Energy Inc. convenience store and Gulf gas station at 420 Route 108 for the report of a strong-armed robbery, according to Somersworth Police. During the course of their investigation Somersworth police were advised by Rochester police of a vehicle potentially involved in the Rochester robbery try.

The clerk at the Somersworth robbery was assaulted, but unhurt, according to Somersworth police. Another witness and video surveillance provided a description of the suspect and vehicle..

Soon after Rochester officers located the vehicle parked across the street from the registered owner's home at 105 Whitehouse Road and saw that there was a blanket covering the license plate.

After a short search officers were able to locate Brouillard, who was charged with charged with felony attempted armed robbery, felony driving while a Habitual Offender, and driving without given proof, a misdemeanor.

No one was injured in the Rochester incident.

Brouillard, who is currently out on parole and being supervised by Strafford County Probation and Parole, refused bail. He was already on probation for armed robbery.

Brouillard will be arraigned later today at Rochester District Court.