An Austin man who was arrested in early January in connection with a string of burglaries has pleaded not guilty to six counts of burglary, among other criminal charges.

Brett Aaron McKee, 33, faces six burglary charges, four property damage charges and three theft charges relating to the alleged burglaries.

McKee is accused of attempted burglary at the Avon Shop and the Hardy Geranium; he also allegedly stole $225 in cash from Super Fresh, $120 in cash from Austin Aquatics and $75 from a woman’s purse in a residential burglary.

Police initially suspected McKee was connected to the Echo Lanes burglary in which over $2,000 was taken, but he has not been charged in that incident.

Police seized two pry bars and a camouflage mask from McKee’s vehicle, which he admitted to using in the burglaries. He told officers he committed the burglaries because he lost his job and needed money for gas and bills, according to a court complaint.

Court complaints said McKee’s shoe prints were found at each scene, including at Echo Lanes. When questioned about the bowling alley break-in, he said he went to the door but never went in. He also said he “heard on the news” that $2,800 was taken from the business. When questioned further, he chose to exercise his right to remain silent, according to a court complaint.

For five of the burglary charges, which are third-degree, McKee could be sentenced up to five years in prison or have to pay a $10,000 fine. First-degree burglary, of which there is one charge, can be punishable by up to 20 years is prison or a $35,000 or both.