AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - Three people have been arrested following the latest pharmacy robbery in Maine's capital city.
The Kennebec Journal says 32-year-old Michael Pierce and 31-year-old Jeffrey Hodgkins, both of Augusta, were each charged with robbery in connection with Monday night's holdup at the Capitol Street CVS. The robber fled with what police described as a "significant" amount of OxyContin.
Police say Pierce also was charged with an additional count of robbery in a May 8 holdup at another CVS across town.
Also arrested Tuesday was 30-year-old Jennifer Dowling of Augusta. Dowling was arrested during a search at Pierce's home and charged with illegal possession of prescription medication.
Prescription drug abuse and related crimes are being blamed for a 5 percent increase in Maine's crime rate in 2011.
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