08/13/14 — Burglar who was shot by owner charged

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Burglar who was shot by owner charged

By John Joyce
Published in News on August 13, 2014 1:46 PM

Charges have been filed against the man a homeowner shot and wounded during an alleged early morning break-in at her residence in Dudley Aug. 7.

Detectives said the victim acted within the law and will not be charged.

Christopher Todd Brogden, 28, is charged with felony breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of stolen goods and possession of burglary tools.

Brogden allegedly broke into the shed behind the home at Providence Church Road at 4:19 a.m. -- waking the homeowner and another woman.

According to investigation reports, Paige Ham, 28, looked outside her window and saw the lock had been removed from the shed door. She went out to investigate, at which time Brogden allegedly charged at her from inside the shed.

What Brogden did not know was that Mrs. Ham held a .380 caliber pistol in her hand.

She fired at least three shots and struck Brogden at least once in the chest, according to official accounts.

Wayne County sheriff's deputies transported Brogden Tuesday from Vidant Medical Center, where he had been treated for his wounds, to the Wayne County Jail where he is being held under a $20,000 secured bond.

Brogden is scheduled for a first appearance today in the afternoon session of Wayne County District Court.