Break-In, Theft and Vandalism at Pace High School
Two teens were arrested Thursday and charged with breaking into Pace High School and vandalizing the facility and stealing several items, including an ATV used by the athletic department.
The teens, a 13-year-old Sims Middle School student and a 16-year-old Pace High School student, were identified from video surveillance camera recordings.
According to Santa Rosa Sheriff's Office reports, the boys were seen inside the school, discharging fire extinguishers, riding bicycles through the hallways, and damaging doors and musical instruments in the band area.
A John Deere “Gator” off-road vehicle that is used by the coaches at the school was also stolen and the older teen was in possession of the vehicle when he was arrested, reports said.
Both suspects were arrested on several felony charges and transported to the Santa Rosa County Jail. The estimated amount of damages is not known at this time.
Charges include:
Hindering Firefighting Equipment - 3rd degree felony
Felony Criminal Mischief - 3rd degree felony
Burglary of a Structure - 3rd degree felony
Trespassing on School Grounds - 2nd degree misdemeanor
Grand Theft - 3rd degree felony