Justin Edward James, 35, of Friday Harbor, was charged with burglary in the first degree, a Class A felony, and malicious mischief in the first degree, a Class B felony, on Dec 8.

According to court documents, on Nov. 21, 8:58 a.m., a San Juan deputy responded to a report of a burglary at the New Day Recovery Café after a volunteer of the café had found the back door open with damage to items inside as well as to the building. New Day Recovery Café is a program under the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center. The website states that it is “committed to serving people who have experienced trauma and the results of trauma, including housing insecurity, family conflicts, substance use disorders and other mental health challenges. The Recovery Café Model provides a structure for developing healthy relationships and loving accountability that empowers Recovery Café Members to gain and maintain recovery, reduce relapse, and fulfill each individual’s growth potential.”

Several items in the building had been smashed, including a piano, a computer and a mirror. An air fryer and two coffee makers had been struck by an implement, a free-standing counter appeared to have been pushed over and other furniture throughout the rooms was overturned and damaged. A beverage refrigerator and a printer had been damaged.

Despite security cameras being cut, the owner of the building was able to provide deputies with footage from prior to being cut. The video showed a male whom deputies recognized as James from prior contact. Court documents state James can be seen clearly wearing gloves and carrying an axe, walking from the door of the building before turning west around a corner.

No items were found to be missing. The extent of the damage is estimated to exceed $5,000. While armed with an axe, which could be a deadly weapon, the Probable Cause Affidavit stated there was reason to charge the defendant with malicious mischief.

During his first appearance, bond was set at $25,000, and an Order for Competency Evaluation was filed Dec. 10. During his arraignment Dec. 15, an evaluation had not been received. A review hearing is scheduled for Jan. 12.

James’ criminal history includes criminal trespassing, resisting arrest and evading arrest detention in Fort Worth, Texas; battery in Las Vegas, and residential burglary, theft in the third degree and possession of burglary tools in San Juan County.

For those interested in donating to the New Day Café as they recover from the damage, or are interested in finding out how to help, visit https://jlsfrc.org/programs/new-day-recovery-cafe/.Donations may be made out to JLS Family Resource Center, with a memo to Recovery Café. Visit https://jlsfrc.org/how-to-help/monetary-donations/, or stop by the café, open Tuesday Fr day from 2-6 p.m. to find out what in-kind donated items are needed.