Crime & Safety

Richland Man Charged in Burglaries Dies While Awaiting Trial

The Medical Examiner's Office confirms the death of Stephen Paul Hudec, 20, who on Wednesday waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

A 20-year-old Richland man, who was recently charged and held for court in a string of burglaries, has died.

The Allegheny County Medical Examiner's office confirmed that Stephen Paul Hudec died at 11:42 a.m. Friday. The cause and manner of death have not been determined.

Hudec was charged in a series of crimes in the Pine-Richland area from July through October. Investigators accused him of breaking into homes and cars to steal thousands of dollars worth of electronics, a gun, cash and other items to support his drug addiction, according to court documents.

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When he appeared Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge William K. Wagner, he waived his right to a preliminary hearing and was ordered to stand trial.

Prosecutors withdrew one of the charges against him, but he still faced 31 counts that includes  burglary; theft; loitering and prowling at night; receiving stolen property; and conspiracy.

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He also faced nearly 40 similar charges in Hampton Township.


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