Three teens admit to string of burglaries from autos

They've gone on at least six theft sprees since May, they say - targeting only parked vehicles they found unlocked.

By ROSALIND HELDERMAN

© St. Petersburg Times, published July 28, 2000

ST. PETERSBURG -- Michelle Deson usually locks her car doors. But with three kids running in and out of the house, turning the key sometimes gets forgotten.

Early Thursday morning, she realized someone had taken advantage of her forgetfulness.

Burglars got into the Deson family car and minivan, which were sitting outside their home, and stole a portable CD player, a cell phone charger and some change.

Police later caught three teens -- ages 17, 16 and 14 -- who admitted to officers that they have broken into dozens of cars over a span of nearly three months, but said they have never actually broken anything -- not one pane of glass, not one door lock. The teens were arrested just down the street from the Deson home.

The youths said they have gone on at least six sprees since May, stealing items from cars parked in an area bounded by Ninth and 54th avenues N and 16th Street and Tampa Bay. But they told police every car they hit sat unlocked and waiting.

The youths said they entered 40 to 50 cars on Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

"I believe their direct quote to officers was "We only go into unlocked cars, and there are plenty of them out there,' " said Officer Dan Bates.

Called to the scene by a report of a car break-in, Officer Troy Turner saw the three teenagers walking along the street. Bates said one of the boys ran after seeing Turner but was brought down by Turner's police dog. He was treated for a dog bite at Bayfront Medical Center. Each youth has been charged with one count of vehicular burglary, but with at least 10 confirmed break-ins this week, police said, that number may rise.

For now, the three have been released to their parents until they can go before a juvenile judge.

Bates said people who suspect the teens might have broken into their cars over the last few months should contact Detective Tom Kewin at (727) 893-7127.

And, of course, drivers should remember to lock their doors.

Police were able to return Mrs. Deson's belongings, but she said she has learned her lesson.

"It's just one of those things you have to keep checking," she said.

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