Volusia County Sheriff's Office has arrested two suspects in a string of car thefts and burglaries reported in the county since Oct. 30.

  • VCSO arrest two suspects in string of car thefts and burglaries
  • Third suspect sought
  • The men allegedly bragged about the crimes on social media

Erik Smith, 20, and Markees Shine, 18, were charged with 12 car burglaries, three counts of grand theft auto, and grand theft firearm.

Shine is also being charged with carrying a firearm and a concealed firearm while on school grounds after entering Seabreeze High School with a gun in his possession.

Deputies are still searching for a third suspect in the spree, Carmaine Givens, 19.

The three men have been linked to 15-20 vehicle burglaries and at least three stolen vehicles from Deltona to Ormond Beach, according to detectives. The suspects have also allegedly bragged about the thefts and burglaries on social media, and that they wouldn't be caught.

They reportedly stole wallets, purses, tools, money, credit cards, laptops and firearms.

According to a VCSO news release, cars are easy targets since they're often left unlocked or contain spare keys to other vehicles.

“I commend our detectives and deputies for their tireless work to catch these thugs,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood in a news release. “They have put in hours and hours to track down the people responsible for these car breaks. And we expect more charges as the cases continue to be investigated.”

Sheriff Chitwood also reminded residents that they can avoid being a victim of theft by locking their cars, removing any valuables, spare keys and garage openers.