Hurricane Isaias aftermath: arrests for looting, stolen car

Escambia County, Fla. — Updated Aug. 5, 2020

As power crews worked through outages left by Hurricane Isaias, Escambia County deputies arrested three people in two storm-related incidents. One suspect is accused of smashing a store window in the dark, and two others are accused of stealing a car after asking the owner to charge a phone.

Sheriff Simmons posted a video update Wednesday and said deputies are staying visible in damaged areas while watching for anyone trying to exploit the storm.

Blackout break-in attempt

The first incident happened along Gulf Beach Highway, where deputies found a 24-hour store with its front window shattered. The sheriff said a man had broken the glass and was trying to get inside while the area had no power.

Deputies spotted the suspect in the area. He tried to get away on foot but officers moved in quickly and took him into custody.

The man is now facing:

• Attempted burglary of an unoccupied structure during a state of emergency
• Possession of burglary tools
• Wearing a mask while committing a second-degree felony
• Loitering and prowling
• Criminal mischief for damage of $200 or more
• Obstruction without violence

Investigators did not name the suspect in the update.

Because the county was operating under an emergency declaration, the attempted burglary charge includes that language. Florida law also treats wearing a mask or disguise while committing a felony as a separate offense, which explains the additional charge.

Theft by phone-charge ruse

A second set of arrests unfolded after a woman told deputies that a couple approached her and said they were in town for work. They said their phone had died and, because of the power outage, they had no place to charge it. The woman let them plug the phone into her car.

When she stepped away, the pair allegedly got into the car and drove off. Deputy Beatty was nearby and began pursuing the stolen vehicle. The pursuit ended in a crash, and no serious injuries were reported.

The sheriff identified the suspects as Dustin Lee Kelly, 30, and Amanda Marie Carr, 29. Kelly faces a charge of stealing a vehicle. Carr was also arrested, but the sheriff did not list her charges in the video update.

Staying alert during storm recovery

The two cases fit a pattern law enforcement sees after hurricanes: closed businesses, dark neighborhoods, and residents distracted by cleanup can create openings for theft. Simmons said deputies have been patrolling more heavily because of that risk.

Officials also urged residents to lock their vehicles, keep garage doors closed, and call the sheriff's office if they see someone hanging around a damaged store or parking lot after dark. They emphasized that people should avoid confronting suspected criminals.

Both cases are still under investigation. The sheriff's office said additional charges could be filed as the cases are reviewed.