Deputies Arrest 12-Year-Old For Overnight Car Burglaries In New Port Richey

NEW PORT RICHEY, FL — A 12-year-old was arrested Tuesday in connection with armed burglary while wearing a mask and possession of a firearm by a minor, according to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. (Watch surveillance footage of the crimes below.)

The arrest followed an investigation in the Tidal Pond Drive area of New Port Richey.

Surveillance footage captured the child trying to open multiple vehicle door handles and unlawfully entering several cars on Tuesday around 3 a.m., the sheriff’s office said.

The child took a handgun from an unlocked vehicle and also stole several items from other cars, investigators said.

Deputies later determined the suspect's location, recovered the stolen items and made an arrest.

The agency didn’t identify the child or share additional information about the burglaries.

“This case serves as an important reminder to lock your doors every night as part of the [9 p,m. Routine,]” the sheriff’s office said. “To protect your car from theft, ensure that the doors are locked and the windows are closed. When criminals cannot quickly access a vehicle, they are more likely to move on.”

Watch surveillance video footage of the suspect:

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