Men accused of breaking into school being used as flood shelter

Curtis Murphy and David Helsel Curtis Murphy and David Helsel
Curtis Murphy and David Helsel
Curtis Murphy and David Helsel

PIKEVILLE, Ky. — Two were arrested Tuesday morning, after being accused of breaking into a Mullins Elementary classroom, allegedly in an attempt to get to flood victims’ belongings.

The school is currently serving as a shelter for flood victims, but those staying at the shelter are told that they are only allowed to be in the gymnasium and not in other parts of the school.

But the Red Cross called police after learning that Curtis Murphy, 46, whose license lists a Louisville homeless shelter as his address, climbed through a classroom window, with assistance from David Helsel, 50, of Belfry.

The investigating officer reported watching surveillance video of the two men forcing open a classroom window, with Murphy then climbing into the building while Helsel remained outside, presumably as a lookout. Cameras inside the school then captured Murphy wandering through the hallways, looking for a way back into the gym.

The police report also says cameras captured Murphy stealing items from other flood victims the previous night.

Both men were arrested and charged with second-degree burglary and second-degree criminal mischief. Helsel was also charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly screaming and cursing while being arrested.

Both men continue to be held in the Pike County Detention Center.