Deputies catch business burglary in progress

Approximately thirty minutes later, Deputy Chandler observed Perkins drive to the south side of the complex and walk towards the closed business. Perkins went to the back door where deputies approached him. They located a large rubber mallet in a garbage can near the rear door. Deputies interviewed Perkins and he confessed to burglarizing the business earlier that evening. Perkins admitted to using the rubber mallet to gain entry into the rear door of the business. He told deputies that he felt the business owed him money and he was worried they would go out of business before he was paid. Vero Beach Arcade was processed by the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Services Unit and the business owner is still trying to determine all of the items taken during the burglary. Deputies believe he returned to the business to remove more items.

Indian River County Sheriff Deryl Loar stated, “This case is a great example of how our relationship with the community, combined with proactive policing methods, can help solve crimes. The business owner was comfortable speaking with Deputy Chandler, which provided the lead we needed to catch this burglar. We say it so often, but if you see something, say something. It really does work.” Perkins was arrested and charged with burglary, possession of burglary tools, loitering and prowling, driving with license suspended with knowledge, and on an outstanding Indian River County warrant for theft. He was booked into the Indian River County Jail where he remains on $35,500.00 bond.