Man accused of stealing money from Lark Street restaurant

A 48-year-old man was arrested on Thursday for allegedly stealing from a Lark Street restaurant last month.

Albany Police said Benjamin Rivera Jr. entered Tapasia Restaurant on Sept. 20 at about 2:15 a.m. by damaging the front window. Rivera then allegedly stole the cash register.

On Thursday, officers attempted to stop Rivera in the area of Orange Street and Henry Johnson Boulevard regarding a burglary investigation. After a brief foot chase, he was arrested.

Rivera also had crack cocaine in his possession, police said.

He was charged with burglary, criminal mischief, petty larceny, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Rivera was arraigned in Albany City Criminal Court and sent to Albany County Jail.