Attorney convicted of attempted break-in

A San Diego attorney was convicted Thursday of attempting to break into his client’s foreclosed Newport Coast home.

Michael T. Pines, 59, was found guilty of misdemeanor vandalism, attempted second degree burglary, attempted unauthorized entry of a dwelling and obstructing an officer.

He faces probation to three years in jail and $10,000 in fines. He is slated to be sentenced at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 14.

Pines advised his client Rene Hector Zepeda, 72, of Newport Coast, that his foreclosure was illegal and to take back his home by breaking in.

The two, with a locksmith, attempted Oct. 13, 2010 to break into the house, despite police warnings that they could be arrested.

Both were arrested.

Pines attorney license was suspended in May. He is also facing separate criminal in Ventura and San Diego counties.

—Britney Barnes