By Patricia Breakey
DELHI _ A Downsville man who admitted breaking into his sister and brother-in-law's house to steal a gun pleaded guilty to fourth-degree grand larceny in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Johny J. Berdoff, 53, of Airport Road, was sentenced to a year in jail.
Berdoff said that three weeks before he broke into the house, he had "some kind of a mental breakdown." Berdoff said that on June 26, he couldn't find his family and was in a badly depressed state.
"Something told me to grab the gun and end it quickly," Berdoff said.
He said he couldn't find the key his sister keeps hidden outside, so he broke in and took a Glock Model 19 and went to the motel in Walton.
Delaware County Judge Carl Becker dismissed a second charge of second-degree burglary.
Delaware County District Attorney Richard Northrup said Berdoff is receiving the treatment he needs.
Berdoff said: "I'm blessed _ a lot of people don't get a second chance, and I am alive. I have a better relationship with my family, and everything is working out fine."
Berdoff still faces charges of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.
Berdoff is being held on $15,000 bail or $30,000 bond.
Northrup said the gun was returned, so there is no restitution.
In another case, Vladimir Smirnoff, 58, of Downsville, pleaded innocent to two counts of driving while intoxicated, improper turn signal, improper U-turn and unregistered motor vehicle.
Smirnoff was released on his own recognizance. His trial is scheduled during the April 26 term.
___
Patricia Breakey can be reached at 746-2894 or at stardelhi@stny.rr.com.
