8 Vehicles Stolen While Unlocked And Running In Manassas, 17-Year-Old Charged: Police

MANASSAS, VA — A 17-year-old from Manassas was arrested on Wednesday and charged in connection with the theft of eight vehicles last month. The teen, who has not been publicly identified due to laws protecting the identities of minors, was released to the custody of a family member.

Detectives with the Prince William County Police Department have been investigating eight vehicle thefts that were reported in Manassas between Dec. 8, 2021 and Dec. 26, 2021. Video surveillance footage from the crimes indicated that the same person was involved in all of the thefts.

During their investigation, detectives determined that all of the stolen vehicles were left unlocked, unattended, and running prior to the theft. In each instance, the suspect would enter the vehicle and drive away. All of the stolen vehicles were later recovered in different areas of Prince William County, the police department said.

Officers were able to identify the suspect after he was found in the area matching a description provided to police.

The teen's court date is currently pending.

Residents across Prince William County are encouraged to use cautious when warming up their cars. A running car should never be left unlocked and unattended, the police department said.

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