LEBANON, TN – Five juveniles were taken into custody early Monday morning as a brief chase eventually led deputies to the capture of suspects linked to multiple auto thefts in Wilson County and surrounding areas. Around 1:45am, a patrol deputy observed a Maroon Dodge Durango that matched the description of a stolen Durango from the Gladeville area, which took place recently. Deputies gave chase to the fleeing vehicle which ended in Lebanon along with the assistance of the Lebanon Police Department. While the investigation is ongoing, it is believed that some of the juveniles are persons of interest in several auto thefts that have taken place in Wilson County and surrounding areas. Among the items that were confiscated from the juveniles included a small handgun, marijuana, and a digital scale.

 “There has been a rise in auto thefts in this county where vehicles are not being secured and keys are being left in them causing the vehicles to become a primary target,” stated Sheriff Robert Bryan. “I cannot stress enough the importance of securing your vehicle each time you leave it unattended; by taking your keys and any valuables out of your vehicle that may give suspects the opportunity to take them. The officers paid attention to small details, along with the assistance of the Lebanon Police Department, which led to the arrest of several suspects involved with this recurring problem.”

The suspects are being held at a juvenile detention center pending their initial court appearance. One of the juveniles was an escapee of the Department of Children’s Services. Some of the charges that were filed, but not limited to; auto theft, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, possession of a weapon, and possession of a Schedule VI drug with intent to resale.