Eleven Arrested for Burglary of Deployed Air Force Member’s Home in Florida

Eleven Arrested for Burglary of Deployed Air Force Member’s Home in Florida

Authorities have charged eleven individuals, referred to as “crankers,” with breaking into and pillaging the home of an Air Force member deployed over 2,000 miles away. This troubling incident occurred in Florida and has drawn significant attention from law enforcement and the community.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd announced an online fundraiser for the airman, who is stationed in North Dakota and provides strategic intelligence analysis crucial for the nuclear deterrence mission at his base. The alarm was raised when the airman called the sheriff’s office on March 16, reporting an unusual spike in the electricity bill at his property.

Call for Help Initiates Investigation

Concerned for the integrity of his home, the airman requested that authorities inspect the property. The response from law enforcement underscored the seriousness of the situation.

“If you’ve never seen a cranker colony, now you have,” Sheriff Judd remarked in a video presentation showcasing the suspects’ mugshots. He emphasized the extent of the damage, stating, “They weren’t just breaking into the house. They devastated the house. They gutted the house.” Judd’s comments reflect the unfortunate reality many homeowners face when their properties are left vacant.

Extent of the Damage and Criminal Activity

Upon investigating, deputies discovered that the suspects had stripped the house of nearly all its contents. Sheriff Judd shared images that depicted the chaos, with garbage and several miscellaneous items littering the lawn. In a surprising turn of events, it was revealed that the suspects had been living in a nearby shed where they illegally drew electricity from the airman’s home.

The individuals charged include Brindy Matos, aged 39; Anthony Maddox Jr., aged 31; Dana Pereira, aged 46; Michael Stone, aged 38; Johnathan Smith, aged 21; Beverly Reese, aged 44; Dwayne Harris, aged 46; Austin Shirah, aged 33; Angelea Keene, aged 53; Troy Bumlens, aged 41; and 25-year-old Kayla Strickland. Each has faced multiple charges involving offenses ranging from drug possession to maintaining a public nuisance structure for drug use.

Fleeing Suspect and Additional Charges

The chaotic scene escalated when Maddox attempted to evade law enforcement. He fled the home, leaving behind Matos, who is reportedly seven months pregnant. As a result, both Matos and Maddox have been charged with burglary and trespassing, in addition to their previous charges.

“They all lived together in a compound, in a colony, and they started pilfering this house,” Sheriff Judd explained, highlighting the unsettling community dynamics surrounding the suspects.

A Deployed Airman’s Heartbreaking Story

The airman has since stepped forward to express his profound disappointment and sorrow regarding the state of his home. He noted that the property has become uninhabitable due to the extensive damage inflicted by the intruders.

In an emotional statement, he described how treasured memories and photographs were left scattered, torn, or otherwise destroyed by the intruders. He lamented the graffiti and profanity painted on the walls of his home and the stolen appliances, suggesting the suspects may have been searching for valuables to sell.

“I am headed back to continue my duty at Minot AFB and comfort my grieving mother after this tremendous loss that we were not expecting,” the airman wrote, shedding light on the personal impact of this incident on both him and his family.

Community Response and Support

This incident has sparked a response not only from law enforcement but also from the local community. The sheriff’s office has initiated a fundraiser to assist the airman during this challenging time, providing the opportunity for residents to show their support.

Theer has also been an increased dialogue about the importance of ensuring the safety and security of homes belonging to deployed military members. Community members are rallying together to assist those serving our country, emphasizing the need for vigilance and protection of their properties while they are away.

Broader Implications for Military Families

The case has broader implications for military families who often face unique challenges due to their service commitments. As service members deploy, they rely on security measures to protect their homes. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities that can arise when military families face long deployments.

Efforts are underway to enhance support networks for deployed military families, ensuring that they are not left to shoulder the burden of such unfortunate circumstances alone. Engaging local law enforcement and community organizations can provide critical resources and assistance during these trying times.

The Journey Ahead

As the legal proceedings against the eleven suspects unfold, the airman and his family face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives after the devastation of their home. Their story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and the unexpected challenges they may encounter while serving our nation.

This incident reinforces the importance of community support, vigilance, and the recognition of the challenges faced by those in uniform. Through fundraising efforts and communal solidarity, hope remains alive for the airman and countless others who serve.