CORTLAND, NY — A 32-year-old man has been arrested following a burglary and robbery investigation that began last month.
Billy J. Foster was taken into custody May 7 after officers located him in the area of Courthouse Park at approximately 3:09 p.m.
The Cortland Police Department reports that officers responded to a reported disturbance at a residence on Main Street on April 26, 2026, at approximately 4:38 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered evidence of forced entry and property damage at the residence.
The investigation determined that Foster allegedly forced entry into the apartment by breaking a glass window in the door.
Once inside, Foster allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with a resident, prevented the resident from contacting 911, damaged property within the apartment, and stole the victim’s cellular phone before fleeing the scene.
Following an investigation, felony complaints were prepared charging Foster with burglary in the second degree, robbery in the third degree, criminal mischief in the third degree, criminal mischief in the fourth degree, harassment in the second degree and resisting arrest.
An arrest warrant was issued by Cortland City Court on May 7, 2026.
When officers attempted to take him into custody on the warrant, Foster fled on foot.
After a brief pursuit, Foster surrendered and was taken into custody without injury.
Foster was arraigned in Cortland City Court and remanded to the Cortland County Jail pending further court proceedings.
He is scheduled to reappear in Cortland City Court on May 12, 2026.
