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Teen and Adult Arrested for Multiple Burglaries Using Stolen Trucks

WINTER HARBOR HAVEN, Va. — In a series of events that unfolded early Wednesday morning, two individuals, including a 14-year-old teenager, were apprehended by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for their involvement in a string of burglaries committed using stolen trucks. Sheriff Grady Judd expressed his strong disapproval of their actions, stating, “We are just not going to tolerate this nonsense.”

The authorities were on the lookout for two stolen trucks that were connected to multiple burglaries across Tampa and Pasco County. These vehicles were spotted driving together on eastbound Interstate 4, prompting the deputies to take immediate action.

One of the stolen trucks, a 2000 Nissan pickup truck, was followed by deputies starting around 1 a.m. on Wednesday on I-4. With the assistance of the Florida Highway Patrol and Lake Alfred police, the truck was surrounded and the driver was arrested.

The driver, identified as a 14-year-old boy, now faces charges of grand theft auto, driving without a license, criminal mischief, and fleeing to elude. During the arrest, the teenager questioned the charges, saying, “What am I getting charged with? Grand theft auto?” He also expressed concern about missing his court appearance the following day for another grand theft auto arrest.

The second stolen vehicle, a 2022 Dodge Ram pickup truck, was spotted at the Circle K on Ronald Regan Parkway shortly after 1 a.m. Upon approaching the truck, both the driver and the passenger fled the scene. While the passenger managed to evade capture, the driver, identified as 24-year-old Tamari Lucas, was successfully apprehended.

Lucas has been charged with grand theft auto and resisting an officer without force. Upon learning that he was in Polk County, Lucas reportedly exclaimed, “Oh my God, not Grady Judd. Are you f***ing serious? This really sucks because you guys don’t play in Polk County.”

The sheriff’s office revealed that Lucas has an extensive criminal record, including 30 previous felony charges and 12 misdemeanor charges. Similarly, the 14-year-old teenager has been arrested on four previous occasions.

Sheriff Grady Judd expressed his frustration with the situation, stating, “These two thieves are running rampant. They obviously don’t take our criminal justice system seriously. Why is this 14-year-old out at 1:00 in the morning stealing cars and committing burglaries? Where are the adults in his life? We will absolutely hold these two accountable. We are just not going to tolerate this nonsense.”

It is crucial to address such incidents to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of the community. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, along with other law enforcement agencies, will continue to work diligently to prevent and solve crimes, sending a strong message to potential offenders that their actions will not go unpunished..