Pair accused of library crime plead innocent

Two accused would-be library thieves pleaded not guilty on Thursday morning.

Caleb Davis, 20, of Columbia Falls and Gary Armaly, 21, appeared in Flathead County District Court on charges of felony burglary.

According to court documents, just before midnight on Feb. 21, Kalispell Police Sgt. A.J. McDonnell saw a woman hiding in the bushes near the Flathead County Library.

When approached, the woman said her boyfriend, Davis, and Armaly were inside the library and she was waiting for them.

Noting the library was closed, McDonnell called for assistance.

Inside the library, officers located Davis and Armaly.

Each was carrying a two-way radio.

According to Kalispell Police, computer equipment inside the building appeared to have been moved.

The two apparently gained entry through a window that had been rigged earlier.

When questioned by police, Davis said he and Armaly entered with the purpose of taking two laptop computers.

Armaly reportedly told officers he discussed stealing laptop computers with Davis.

Felony burglary carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in state prison and a $50,000 fine.

Davis and Armaly have omnibus hearings scheduled for May 12, a pre-trial conference on May 26 and a trial scheduled for July 12.