Police in North Carolina claim that a group of 19 children and teens are responsible for the theft of 46 vehicles from car dealerships in Winston-Salem and Kernersville in recent weeks.
In a statement issued to WFMY2 News, Winston-Salem police assert that the children, ages nine to 16, have stolen $1,138,718 worth of vehicles from 18 car dealerships in the local area since March 17. Dealerships hit include those selling Honda, Lexus, Subaru, Chevrolet, Ford, Audi, Kia, Toyota, and Volvo models. An Enterprise Rentals facility was also targeted.
Read Also: Police Urge Motorists To Lock Their Cars After Nearly 30 Thefts In 24-Hours In Connecticut
Authorities soon arrested 19-year-old Stewart Binns in connection with the thefts and charged with the possession of a stolen motor vehicle. He is being held at the Forsyth County Detention Center.
https://www.facebook.com/crimestopperswsfc/posts/2656403144571816
Authorities say they initially tried and were denied custody orders from the Forsyth County Department of Juvenile Justice for the kids involved. However, police have since found seven of the children involved and taken four of them into custody. The other three children had minor charges that did not warrant an arrest but police say they will likely face other penalties.
The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is working with Winston-Salem police to identify the other 12 kids involved with charges ranging from felonies to misdemeanors. The DPS added it is investigating each case individually to determine the appropriate consequences which may include penalties against the parents.
All but six of the 46 stolen vehicles have been recovered by authorities. Police allege the group of children stole the keys of new cars or vehicles being serviced at the dealerships and took them on joy rides.
Volvo Cars Winston Salem, one of the dealers hit.