Trio Arrested After High-Speed Chase in Palm Coast. After a dangerous chase, Palm Coast police arrested a suspected organized stealing ring, endangering numerous lives. Flagler County officers responded quickly to a theft in progress call at a State Road 100 commercial plaza on Tuesday afternoon.
The arrest report states that a deputy found two Jacksonville women, Tiara Gailyard, 29, and Amanda Wright, 36, who matched the description of Bath & Body Works thieves. When the suspects fled to a white getaway car driven by Jacksonville’s Gerald Jenkins, 28, the deputy’s bodycam film captured the momentous moment.
“Our community’s safety is our top priority, and we will continue to pursue and apprehend criminals.” Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
The incident escalated quickly when the suspects ignored instructions to stop and fled. Jenkins pushed the vehicle in reverse, nearly avoiding the deputy and another car in the parking lot before driving off, according to the deputy’s bodycam footage.
The suspects led deputies on a high-speed chase along State Road 100, swerving dangerously around other vehicles, in a frantic attempt to escape. After another officer deployed a spike strip, the suspects continued their reckless escape, losing control of the vehicle and crashing into a water retention area near to a petrol station.
After their arrest, deputies searched the partially submerged automobile and found a magnetic device intended to remove anti-theft devices from retailers. Deputies also found almost $1,800 in stolen stuff at T.J. Maxx and Bath and Body Works, confirming witness accounts of the trio leaving without paying.
Both witness accounts and security footage proved the accused’ involvement in the organized theft operation. Witnesses described the moment the getaway car nearly missed hitting the deputy upon arrival.
All three suspects have had criminal records, with Jenkins wanted for grand theft and grand retail theft in Hillsborough County, Jacksonville, and Marion County. Gailyard and Wright have arrest warrants, with Wright on probation when arrested.
As the three stays in custody in Flagler County Jail, law enforcement continues its investigation into the organized thievery ring, emphasizing the need for collaboration to battle such criminal organizations and protect communities.
After this perilous chase, officials are dedicated to dismantling organized theft schemes and bringing culprits accountable, sending a clear message that such behavior will not be accepted in Palm Coast or elsewhere.
Authorities are trying to determine the size of the organized stealing ring and identify any further members. Law enforcement’s fast response shows their dedication to community safety and sends a clear message that criminal activity will be punished.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly stressed the need of community-police collaboration in fighting organized crime after the incident. “We are grateful for the quick response and bravery exhibited by our deputies in apprehending these dangerous individuals,” he said. “This case shows the persistent threat of organized theft rings, and we remain alert in our efforts to disrupt and dismantle them.”
Palm Coast residents can rest easy knowing that the thieves who endangered lives and committed crimes are in prison. Law enforcement continues to struggle to confront organized crime and defend communities, as the incident shows.
After this deadly chase, Palm Coast residents renew their dedication to safety and security and assist with law enforcement to fight crime and safeguard citizens. Palm Coast strives to keep its residents safe via vigilance, cooperation, and dedication.
As the defendants await trial, the community remains alert, knowing law enforcement works hard to secure justice. Palm Coast is unified in its fight to defend the law and protect its inhabitants.
In conclusion, the arrest of the suspected organized thievery ring after a risky chase in Palm Coast shows police enforcement’s dedication and professionalism in protecting the neighborhood. Authorities are committed to holding those responsible accountable and protecting residents as the investigation continues.
