Victims lose $5K during weekend vandalism spree

Historic City News readers are being asked to help the Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit to identify vandals who slashed tires on multiple vehicles in two World Golf Village sub-divisions over the weekend.

Detectives are telling local news reporters that the incidents occurred between Friday evening and Saturday morning in the Murabella and Samara Lakes sub-divisions.

At least 15 vehicles had 37 tires punctured or slashed — including four marked patrol vehicles belonging to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Six vehicles were parked in front of homes on Porta Rosa Cr., two each on S. Portofino Rd., Remini Ct., and Wynfield Cr. and one each on N. Portofino Rd., Brays Island La., and Riva Del Garda Way.

One of the victims had additional damage to their 2008 Ford Ranger — besides having the four tires flattened, the windshield was broken, the hood was keyed, the two mirrors were damaged and the gas cap was removed and gravel was placed into the gas tank.

The total damage was estimated at $5,000.

Detectives believe that a suspect may have sent a text message to others; bragging about the puncturing of tires.

Anyone with any information concerning this investigation or to identify the possible suspect(s) is asked to contact Detective David Garnes with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office at (904) 209-3982. You can remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a cash reward by calling CrimeStoppers of N.E. Florida at 1-(888) 277-TIPS (8477).