2 arrested after Sanford mayor carjacked at gunpoint, police say

Sanford police search for 3rd person in incident

SANFORD, Fla. – Two people have been arrested after Sanford's mayor was carjacked Saturday, the Sanford Police Department said.

Police responded at 2:14 a.m. Saturday to 110 Chapman Ave. about an armed robbery.

Sanford police met with the victim, identified as Sanford Mayor Jeffrey Triplett, who was visiting a friend.

While Triplett was outside the home, he was approached by three people. Police said two of them brandished a firearm and took Triplett’s car keys from him.

They also stole Triplett’s wallet, which contained $300, a Florida driver's license, two credit cards, a bank card and a city of Sanford mayor's badge, police said. The trio fled from the area in Triplett’s Mercedes-Benz.

Based on the information provided by Triplett, the Police Department said it was able to apprehend two people, who were arrested based on probable cause.

Police said the third individual has not been apprehended.

"Being a victim of a crime is unnerving, yet it was reassuring to witness both speed and diligence from the Sanford Police Department," Triplett said. "It is disheartening when this type of crime takes place in the city of Sanford. I encourage the community, its businesses and the Police Department to continue to work together and stop this type of violence."

The two individuals who were arrested -- identified as Jermine Horne, 18, and Damarcus Jesse Paige, 17, were taken to the Seminole County Correctional Facility and charged with carjacking with a firearm and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Police said Horne was also charged with contributing to the delinquency or dependency of a minor. Horne was denied bail and remains in custody.

Paige was placed on secure detention. His arraignment is set for July 11.  No word on Horne at this time.

Sanford police is asking for the public's help for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the third person.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimeline at 800 423-TIPS (8477). Police said calls made to Crimeline remain anonymous, and tips to Crimeline that lead to solving a felony case are eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.


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