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AUGUSTA, Ga. – On the evening of February 5th, around 8:00 p.m., officers from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Gang Unit were conducting patrols in the Damascus Road vicinity in response to a surge in vehicle break-ins.
While on duty, the officers observed a group of boys attempting to open several car doors. Upon realizing they were being watched by law enforcement, the juveniles tried to flee the scene.
The officers acted swiftly, apprehending the two individuals without any complications.
During the subsequent investigation, authorities discovered that one of the young suspects was carrying a firearm that had been reported stolen.
Further inquiries revealed that the two juveniles, along with other accomplices, were linked to a series of vehicle break-ins over the last two months, targeting the areas of Walton Way, Wrightsboro Road, and Highland Avenue.
Investigators also learned the juveniles were using basic household tools to pry open vehicle doors and windows while committing these alleged offenses.
Both the 13-year-old and 14-year-old juveniles were arrested and taken to YDC.
The 14-year-old suspect was charged with:
- Four counts of Criminal Attempt to Enter a Vehicle to Commit Theft or Felony
- Entering a Vehicle to Commit Theft or Felony
- Theft by Taking a Firearm
- Possession of Tools for the Commission of a Crime
- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime
- Possession of a Pistol by a Person Under 18
- Misdemeanor Obstruction
The 13-year-old was charged with:
- Four counts of Criminal Attempt to Enter a Vehicle to Commit Theft or Felony
- Entering a Vehicle to Commit Theft or Felony
- Misdemeanor Obstruction
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges and arrests are anticipated.
On January 21, 2026, the Sheriff’s Office previously alerted the media to this growing issue.
Since the beginning of the year, there have been 119 reported vehicle break-ins compared to 48 during the same time period last year, representing an increase of approximately 148%.
Currently, the RCSO is at an increase of 176% although they’ve have been able to make various arrests and solve some of the cases.
The agency is also working closely with North Augusta Department of Public Safety (NADPS), Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Aiken County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), Grovetown PD, and other surrounding law enforcement agencies to share information regarding these incidents.
Authorities say the most concerning factor is that 93% of the vehicles targeted were left unlocked.
Thieves deliberately seek unlocked vehicles because they can move quickly and quietly without drawing attention. Firearms are the primary items being targeted. Guns should never be left inside a vehicle, especially overnight. A stolen firearm often ends up being used in violent crimes, creating a serious risk to public safety.
In many of these incidents, suspects are believed to be teenagers walking through apartment complexes, neighborhoods, and hotel parking lots pulling door handles.
The Sheriff’s Office urges residents to immediately call 911 if they observe anyone looking into vehicles, walking between cars, or attempting to open vehicle doors. Quick reporting allows deputies to respond rapidly and increases the likelihood of arrests.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in problem areas, continues to monitor crime hot spots through its INTEL Division, and is working closely with apartment complexes and neighborhood groups to spread public awareness.
To reduce the risk of becoming a victim, residents are urged to take the following steps:
- Always lock your vehicle
- Remove firearms and valuables every time you exit your vehicle
- Never leave a firearm unattended in a vehicle
- Call 911 immediately to report suspicious activity
“Thirteen and fourteen year olds should be at home studying and preparing to become productive members of society, not armed with a handgun and breaking into vehicles at night,” said Sheriff Brantley. Parents and guardians must help us put an end to this behavior. This situation could have ended tragically for these juveniles or for anyone who encountered them. We put a plan into place, and it is working but we need the help of parents and the community.”
Sheriff Gino Brantley, RCSO