MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A 15-year-old Stuart teen accused of targeting vehicles across several Martin County communities has been arrested after a weeks-long crime spree, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators said Malik Brivard is connected to a series of burglaries and thefts reported in Rocky Point, New Monrovia, Emerald Lakes and along Salvatori Road.
According to the sheriff’s office, Brivard targeted Kia vehicles and caused thousands of dollars in damage by destroying steering columns while trying to steal them.
The arrest came after deputies responded to a report of a suspicious person in one of the neighborhoods that had been affected by the burglaries. When deputies tried to make contact, officials said Brivard ran away, leading to a short foot chase before he was taken into custody.
Detectives said they were able to link Brivard to multiple crimes that had left residents concerned about safety in their neighborhoods. Surveillance video often showed the suspect wearing dark clothing and trying to hide his identity, according to investigators.
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The sheriff’s office released images connected to the investigation, including a photo showing damage to a vehicle’s steering column and a surveillance image of a person dressed in dark clothing walking near a home. Investigators said surveillance video helped connect the suspect to several incidents reported across the county.
Brivard was arrested on five counts of grand theft auto, eight counts of burglary and one count of grand theft, the sheriff’s office said.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or who has information related to the investigation is asked to contact the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
He was booked into the Martin County Jail and later transported to the Department of Juvenile Justice.