Shannon David Pellett, 41, Minot, is accused of burglarizing an empty home on Aug. 7.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed with the court, the home had belonged to a couple that are deceased. The owner of the home lived out of state and had not given permission for Pellett to stay there.

An officer had initially responded to a call reporting an open window at the vacant house. The officer found Pellett asleep in a chair in the living room. The responding officer saw that several valuable items, including jewelry boxes, tools, and a case of fancy silverware had been piled on the floor next to the couch next to where Pellett was sleeping.

Pellett is charged with Class C felony burglary in district court in Minot. He made an initial appearance on the charge on Thursday in district court in Minot before Judge Doug Mattson. A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for Jan. 16.