Thieves use stolen car to commit more thefts in St. Johns County, deputies say

St. Johns County residents are searching for peace of mind after more than a dozen cars were burglarized.

“You don’t know what kind of people you’re dealing with,” said Frank Corrente, a car burglary victim in southeast St. Johns County.

At least three suspects were caught on tape burglarizing cars in the Deerfield Preserve and Treaty Oaks neighborhoods. Deputies say the suspects used a stolen 2013 Jeep Cherokee, with Florida tag GNQA60, to commit the crimes. The vehicle was reported stolen in Volusia County.

“Are they just here to steal something?” Corrente said. “Or can they do violence?”

Action News Jax obtained 15 records of car burglaries in the communities since Monday. Action News Jax  also obtained an incident report for a stolen 2017 Honda Accord the Florida tag CEYE86. Deputies believe the same suspects are responsible.

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According to reports, thieves got away with items like cash, sunglasses, documents, and other items. Homeowners say they feel violated.

Deputies tell us at least 15 vehicles were hit, and the suspects seemed to be targeting cars that were left unlocked. Corrente says he usually locks his car doors every night, but forgot to do so earlier this week. He tells Action News Jax the suspects got away with his briefcase.

“Usually I keep some of my electronic equipment in my bag, that particular day I didn’t put it in,” Corrente said.

Corrente is reminding his neighbors to protect their home and cars.

“Put a sticky notepad on your door in your house to make sure you lock your car,” Corrente said.

Some neighbors say they leave nothing to chance and don’t plan on changing their approach anytime soon.

“It’s an open invitation,” homeowner Margie Meyers said.

Cox Media Group