Police capture Long Island burglary suspect after pursuit on land and water

FREEPORT (WABC) -- Police have arrested a burglary suspect on Long Island after a pursuit on land and water.

According to Nassau County Police, detectives observed Nikolas Balalaos, 26, Freeport, walking at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Westend Avenue Saturday morning.

One of the detectives recognized Balalaos as the suspect from a burglary in April at DQ Bar in Freeport.

The detectives attempted to stop the suspect and he fled on foot initiating a foot pursuit.

The suspect was located swimming in a canal between Anchor Street and Dock Drive, swimming southbound towards Baldwin Bay, police say.

A civilian boat owner provided assistance, transporting the detectives in his boat. The detectives were able to take the suspect into custody in the rear of 99 Eastern Boulevard without incident. No injuries were reported.

Balalaos is charged with Burglary 3rd degree. Additionally it was discovered the suspect had an open Nassau County warrant for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, according to investigators.