Matthew Darwin Houghtaling Arrested: Florida Man Allegedly Takes Stolen Amazon Van on 20-Mile Joyride

1. Man steals Amazon delivery van
2. Family attacked by aggressive pit bulls.

Accident – Death – Obituary News : A Florida man has been arrested after allegedly taking a stolen Amazon delivery van on a 20-mile joyride in Volusia County. Matthew Darwin Houghtaling is facing charges of grand theft, meth trafficking, and possession of weed after the incident in Ormond Beach. The Amazon delivery driver reported that Houghtaling entered the van and started it while he was delivering a package on Creek Bluff Way. Despite the driver’s efforts to remove him, Houghtaling managed to drive away.

The sheriff’s office was able to track the stolen van and view surveillance footage showing Houghtaling “nodding off” while driving at 70 mph on State Road 40. He eventually stopped at a Circle K where he was apprehended by authorities. Houghtaling was taken into custody at the gas station before being handed over to Ormond Beach police.

In another shocking incident, a Florida family and their pet dog were attacked by two pit bulls in Orange County. Jeannett Vescovi and her dog, Jenetto, were ambushed by the aggressive dogs outside their home. The terrifying ordeal lasted less than a minute, with Vescovi’s family intervening to protect her and Jenetto. Despite their efforts, both Vescovi and Jenetto sustained injuries during the attack but were treated and released on the same day.

Meanwhile, in Seminole County, 19 individuals were arrested in a ‘pop-up’ marijuana shop sting in Winter Park. Authorities received reports of illegal marijuana and psychedelic mushroom sales at the makeshift business, prompting undercover deputies to investigate. Following a successful purchase of drugs, the sheriff’s office obtained a search warrant for the property. Inside, they found nearly 60 pounds of suspected marijuana, 2-and-a-half pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, and other illegal products on display at the vendors’ tables.

The arrests have sparked discussions about the consequences of engaging in illicit activities and the importance of adhering to the law. Local residents like Jessie Santiago, who works at a nearby gas station, expressed hope that those arrested would learn from their mistakes. Santiago emphasized the importance of conducting business legally and obtaining the necessary permits to avoid facing legal repercussions.

The incidents highlighted in FOX 35’s Florida Crime Files serve as a stark reminder of the diverse challenges law enforcement agencies face in maintaining public safety and upholding the rule of law. As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, it is essential for residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities..

– Stolen Amazon van joyride
– Family attacked pit bulls.