TROY — Andrew Baker, of St. Paris, and Joshua Hower, of Sidney, both 19, were sentenced to serve 45 days in jail and three years of community control for their role in a rash of church and business break-ins in Champaign, Clark, Shelby and Miami counties last summer. Both Baker and Hower were charged with one count of fifth degree felony breaking and entering for their role in a rash of church and business break-ins within four counties last July.

The pair stole equipment from Union Baptist Church around July 19. The two also were charged and indicted for trespassing in Christiansburg at Miller’s Quality Meats and Masonic Temple, as well as the Christian Worship Center on Elm Tree Road in St. Paris. They also were charged with church break-ins in Clark and Shelby counties.

Prior to his sentencing, Hower apologized for his actions and said he had a job waiting for him after the court proceedings were completed in all counties. Judge Jeannine Pratt said she was mindful of the joint recommendation for community control, but added 45 days of jail time to the sentence. Hower must complete 50 hours of community service, have no contact with co-defendant Baker and comply with the terms of his three years of community control. If Hower violates his community control, Pratt reserved one year in prison.

Baker also was sentenced to serve three years of community control and 45 days in jail for the same charge. Baker was given a jail time credit for the 45 days out of the 96 days he had served. Pratt reserved the remaining 51 days of jail time credit if Baker was to violate terms of his three years of community control. She also reserved one year in prison if Baker was to violate the terms and conditions of his probation.