BOSTON -- A Lawrence man was arrested on child pornography charges after someone broke into his home and stole DVDs that showed the man having sex with children.

NewsCenter 5's Jim Boyd reported Tuesday that James Raboin, 42, is facing at least three counts of child rape, one count of indecent assault on a child and possession of child pornography.

Police said that the charges were brought after they viewed DVDs and tapes showing Raboin engaging in sex with children. But it's how police got the tapes that makes this case so intriguing.

Lawrence Police Chief John Romero said that there was break-in at Raboin's home a week ago.

"We believe these tapes were taken during that burglary," Romero said.

Romero wouldn't give specifics, but he said that a woman, described by local news reports as the mother of one of the burglars, saw the tapes.

"That woman discussed the tapes with this individual who realized the gravity of what was on the tapes and brought it to us on Friday," Romero said.

Romero said that Raboin surrendered Monday and was arraigned immediately. He's being held on $50,000 bail.

A neighbor, who did not want to be identified, said police were often called to the home on East Haverhill Street.

"I really don't know what's going on up there to tell you the truth. I just know there was a lot of problems with kids here and there was a break-in here," the neighbor said. "The guy was a very nice guy, what can I tell you. I mean, we're surprised,"

Police said that considering the enormity of what they may find on the rest of the tapes and DVDs, they're just glad that someone had the presence of mind to bring them to their attention.

"This individual who brought this forward is a very courageous individual. I give him a lot of credit, as well as the woman who brought it to his attention, realizing that it very well may connect someone to a burglary, the fact of the matter is this needs to be brought to the attention of police," Romero said.

Romero said that charges were brought against Raboin after police looked a small amount of the video.