ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Albany Police are calling on young people to make smarter decisions during the holiday break and asking the public to be careful about where they leave their car keys.

The warning comes after two juveniles were arrested for stealing a car. Police said they broke into a home on Kingswood Drive and took car keys before stealing the vehicle.

The victim was able to track their car, which led police to locate the suspects, according to Albany Police.

Albany Police Chief Michael Persley said it troubles him that children are getting into these kinds of activities, especially during what should be an enjoyable holiday break.

“Well, it’s disturbing, and it shows that we just have a challenge... Younger generations are— at times have a heavier influence on them. The streets have a heavier influence on them. When you look at juveniles as you’re getting ready to go on a Christmas break, you shouldn’t be involved in some type of criminal activity,” Persley said.

The juveniles are currently in custody at the Terrell County Regional Youth Detention Center. Police said they are investigating whether this incident relates to other cases.

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