News Summary
Augusta authorities arrested three suspects involved in vehicle break-ins after responding to reports from concerned citizens. Surveillance footage revealed their suspicious behavior near parked vehicles. The suspects, including a juvenile, were found in a gray Hyundai Elantra with tools used for breaking windows and a handgun. Community members are urged to take precautions against such incidents, which have seen an uptick during the winter months.
Augusta, Georgia – Three suspects were arrested late Friday night in connection with a series of vehicle break-ins reported in the 1600 block of Goshen Road. The arrests were made by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office after deputies responded to the scene around 11:00 PM following reports from concerned citizens.
Upon arrival, deputies reviewed surveillance footage from nearby locations, which showed multiple suspects attempting to break into several parked vehicles. A gray Hyundai Elantra was spotted parked suspiciously in the vicinity. Inside the vehicle, deputies discovered a male, a female, and a juvenile, all pretending to be asleep. These individuals were later identified as the same suspects seen in the surveillance video.
During the investigation, deputies conducted a search of the Hyundai Elantra, uncovering a handgun and several window punchers, tools commonly used to break car windows. Two of the suspects have been linked to prior theft and burglary cases, which involved stolen electronics and clothing.
The suspects have been identified as Jai’Quan Jenkins, 17 years old, and Kayla Miller, 20 years old, both of whom have been committed to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center (CBWDC). Additionally, a 15-year-old juvenile involved was committed to the Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC).
This incident marks the second consecutive night of arrests related to vehicle break-ins, curfew violations, and other charges in the Augusta area. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has noted an increase in these types of incidents that often occur from late October through the start of the new year. Authorities warn residents to be vigilant during this time.
In response to the recent vehicle break-ins, residents of Augusta are urged to take several safety precautions. These include removing valuables from their vehicles or securing them in the trunk, always locking car doors as most vehicles that were broken into were found to be unlocked, and never leaving a firearm in an unattended vehicle unless it is secured inside a locked garage.
The Sheriff’s Office encourages citizens to remain observant and report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. If anyone notices individuals pulling on door handles, breaking into vehicles, or loitering in a suspicious manner, they are advised to call 911 immediately.
As the community grapples with the risk of vehicle break-ins, staying proactive in protecting personal property remains crucial. Residents are reminded that remaining alert and taking precautionary measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of such crimes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Three Arrested in Vehicle Burglary Incidents in Augusta
Police Issue Warning on Rising Jugging Crime in Augusta
Additional Resources
- WJBF: Three Arrested in Augusta Car Break-In
- Wikipedia: Vehicle Theft
- WRDW: Augusta Suspect Caught Hiding
- Google Search: Augusta vehicle break-ins
- Augusta Press: Three Arrested After Vehicle Break-Ins
- Google Scholar: Augusta vehicle crime
- Rocktown Now: Augusta County Sheriff’s Office Reports Break-Ins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Car Security
- WHSV: Multiple Vehicles Broken Into in Fishersville
- Google News: Augusta car break-ins
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
