published: Thursday, January 17, 2013

Five boys arrested for burglary in Avon Park

By CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY

christopher.tuffley@newssun.com

AVON PARK -- Five male juveniles -- three 16-years old, one 15 and one 17 -- have been arrested and charged with grand theft and burglary by the Highlands County Sheriff's Office following an incident Tuesday.

According to a news release from Nell Hays, the HCSO public information officer, a resident returning home called central dispatch reporting a suspicious vehicle in the driveway. As the citizen approached, the vehicle pulled out and left.

Going to the front door the individual discovered the door unlocked and the house ransacked.

According to Hays, "Responding detectives entered the house and found evidence that a burglary had indeed taken place. During the course of the investigation it was determined that the vehicle observed in the driveway was occupied by the suspects in the burglary."

Traced to a home on Ernest E. Simms Street, a search warrant was served. The release says several pieces reportedly stolen from the victim were found.

The five teenagers are now suspects in other recent burglaries.

The News-Sun is not releasing the names of the accused because of their ages.

The investigation is being handled by Detective Mike Huften of the Criminal Investigations unit. Anyone who would like to provide further information can contact him at 402-7824.

Anyone with information who wants to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS (8477), or at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com.