Picture released of woman wanted in rash of car break-ins

Deputies seek help in identifying suspect

DeBARY, Fla. – Deputies are seeking the public's help in identifying a woman wanted in connection with a recent string of car break-ins at Gemini Springs Park in DeBary, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.

Four vehicles were broken into during a six-day span beginning March 18, the news release said.

All the victims were women, who said they came to the park to walk on the trails and when they returned to their vehicles 30-45 minutes later, they found their windows smashed and property stolen, deputies said.

One victim told News 6 that she was jogging Saturday afternoon when someone stole her purse, gun and permit that were hidden under her driver's seat.

"They know everything about me. That's why I chose not to be on camera," the victim said. "It was a total shock. I was mad, I was upset."

She said it's been complete chaos trying to get her driver's license replaced, credit cards canceled and trying to protect her personal information.

Police said three of the victims reported that the woman used their stolen IDs to cash checks in their names. A woman was caught on surveillance video by at least one of the banks, but deputies are still looking to identify her.

"She didn't look like somebody that you would think, 'Oh my God, it's the boogeyman that's going to break into your vehicle,'" the victim said.

Volusia County owns the park where the car break-ins have been taking place. A spokesperson has not yet said whether or not the county plans to beef up security.

There are signs posted warning visitors to not leave valuables in the car, but the victim said there should be other forms of security measures in place.

"I've seen cop cars out there. The Volusia County Sheriff's Office, I believe, has done as much as they can, but I think the state needs to step in and provide some security," she said.

Anyone who recognizes the woman from the surveillance picture is asked to call the Volusia County Sheriff's Office or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida at 888-277-TIPS.


About the Author:

Loren Korn is a native Texan who joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2014. She was born and raised in Houston and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Journalism.