VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) — Three teenage boys were arrested Saturday, Feb. 28, after authorities said they broke into a vape shop and stole over $1,500 worth of property.

The Valdosta Police Department (VPD) said they arrested a 16-year-old and two 13-year-olds after an alarm went off at Habibi Vape Shop at 1:10 a.m. Saturday.

VPD said officers arrived to find a front window of the shop shattered. They searched the shop, but no one was inside, according to a VPD press release.

While patrolling the area, an officer reportedly saw the 16-year-old running from the police vehicle, initiating a pursuit, near University Drive. A Lowndes County K-9 Unit found the 16-year-old after he tried to hide under a house, VPD said. Police said the 16-year-old dropped several vapes, determined to be from the store, when he was apprehended.

The other teens, two 13-year-olds, were found near the 16-year-old, officials said. They were reportedly apprehended after being found hiding in a utility closet of a residence.

Another person was with the 13-year-olds, according to a citizen who called 911 to report seeing the teenagers. Officials said they are working to identify that fourth person.

In total, VPD said officers recovered over $1,500 worth of property taken from the vape shop.

The 16-year-old and two 13-year-olds were arrested for the following, VPD said:

• First degree burglary (felony)
• Criminal damage to property (felony)
• Obstruction of an officer (misdemeanor)
• Unruly juvenile— Curfew violation (misdemeanor)

They were transported to the Lowndes County Jail to be taken to a regional youth detention center, according to VPD.

The vape shop is located at 2912 North Ashley Street in Valdosta.

WALB is working to learn more. Stay with us.

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