Watch CBS News

Hermit gets marriage proposal, plus bail increase to $250,000

Booking photo of Christopher Knight, arrested Thursday, April 4, 2013, while allegedly stealing food from a camp in Rome, Maine. Authorities said Knight may be responsible for more than 1,000 burglaries. AP Photo/Kennebec County Sheriff's Office

(CBS/AP) PORTLAND, Maine - Bail for the Maine man known as the North Pond Hermit was boosted to a quarter-million dollars Sunday - from $5,000 - an increase authorities say is appropriate to protect him from being exploited before an attorney is appointed for him.

Christopher Knight lived in the woods for nearly three decades before his arrest for burglary and theft last week.

Police say Knight has attracted a marriage proposal and a stranger's offer to bail him out since his arrest at a camp in Rome, Maine. Authorities say he committed an estimated 1,000 burglaries over the years to obtain supplies.

Kennebec County District Attorney Maeghan Maloney says until Knight has his own lawyer, she and police feel it's their job is to keep him safe.

Complete coverage of Christopher Knight on Crimesider

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.