SALEM, New Hampshire — The man who police say used a toddler to steal game prizes from a machine at a mall is set to be arraigned Monday on several charges, including endangerment of a child.
Anthony Helinski, 34, of Lawrence, was arrested last month after several witnesses recorded video of him allegedly using a toddler to steal prizes out of a vending machine game on Sept. 14 at a mall in Salem, New Hampshire.
After numerous tips, police identified Helinski and an arrest warrant was issued. He immediately turned himself in with his attorney.
Theft from Mall at Rockingham ParkAttached is a video from the incident Saturday night at the Mall at Rockingham Park. The video has intentionally been blurred out to protect the identity of the involved children. Anyone who recognizes the suspect in this case is urged to call Detective Dempsey at 603-890-2343 or message us here on Facebook. Thank you!
Posted by Salem NH Police Department on Monday, September 17, 2018
Helinski was charged with three counts of theft by unauthorized taking, two counts of criminal trespass and one count of endangering the welfare of a child.
He was released on personal recognizance after posting bail and is set to be arraigned on Oct. 29 in the 10th Circuit Court District Division in Salem.
Helinski, a teacher at Doherty Middle School in Andover, was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Nicole Kieser, the director of communications for Andover Public Schools said he resigned from his position effective Oct. 1 and his resignation was voluntary.
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