Two Arrested in Jacksonville Beach for Multiple Store Thefts

Joshua Hough and Gilbert Simmons apprehended after stealing from various establishments

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Two individuals were arrested on Saturday afternoon by Jacksonville Beach police for their involvement in a series of thefts targeting several stores in the area. Joshua Hough and Gilbert Simmons were apprehended after a reported theft at Ulta Beauty located at 3928 3rd St., prompting a swift police response.

The Arrest

Following a call reporting a theft, officers were dispatched to Ulta Beauty. Upon arrival, they observed a man matching the description of one of the suspects sitting in a vehicle parked in front of Staples. Simultaneously, another male was seen fleeing from Staples with a cart full of stolen merchandise, pursued by store employees.

Chase and Hide

The suspect running from Staples, later identified as Joshua Hough, hastily discarded the stolen items into the waiting vehicle. Officers successfully apprehended Gilbert Simmons, who was seated in the vehicle, while Hough sought refuge inside Home Depot in an attempt to evade capture.

Successful Capture

Despite his efforts to conceal himself within the store, officers managed to locate Hough and swiftly apprehended him.

Extent of the Thefts

Further investigation revealed that Joshua Hough had targeted a total of five stores within Jacksonville Beach, including Rack Room Shoes, Books-A-Million, Ace Hardware, Ulta Beauty, and Staples. The stolen merchandise amounted to an estimated value of approximately $4,200.00, according to a news release by the Jacksonville Beach police.

Legal Consequences

Gilbert Simmons, aged 37, faces charges of two counts of accessory to grand theft, while Joshua Hough, aged 38, faces charges of three counts of petit theft and two counts of grand theft. Both individuals have been booked into the Duval County jail pending further legal proceedings.