VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - Two teens were arrested on March 17 in Valdosta for breaking into vehicles, according to the Valdosta Police Department (VPD). They said officers responded following reports of suspicious activity on a home security camera.

The teens were released back to their parents after VPD officers got authorization from the Department of Juvenile Justice to release them, according to a VPD press release.

VPD said they responded around 4:20 a.m. to the 800 block of West Cranford Avenue after someone observed the teens trying to break into vehicles. VPD said the caller gave a detailed description of the suspects.

In the press release, VPD said officers saw three males matching the description. The three ran from the officers. The officers pursued them and detained two of the three. The two were found to be juveniles – 16 and 15 years old.

The 16-year-old had a handgun hidden under his clothing, according to the release.

Both teens were charged with:

• Theft by entering auto (felony)
• Unruly juvenile-curfew violation (misdemeanor)
• Concealing identification with a mask (misdemeanor)
• Loitering and prowling (misdemeanor)
• Criminal trespass unlawful purpose (misdemeanor)
• Obstruction of an officer (misdemeanor)

The 16-year-old is also facing charges of possession of a firearm under the age of 21 (misdemeanor) and providing a false name and date of birth (misdemeanor).

VPD said this case is still under investigation. Detectives are trying to identify the third subject and find out whether these teens are connected to other theft from vehicle cases in the same area.

The police department said if you have any further information, please contact the VPD Bureau of Investigative Services at (229) 293-3145, the crime tip line at (229)293-3091 or file a tip online here.

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