The Huntington Police Department has concluded an investigation into the burglaries of Boots Hardware and Huntington Food Mart on the early morning of December 30, 2024, which resulted in the theft of over $2,000 worth of vapes. Through community tips and the meticulous collection of DNA and digital evidence, two juvenile suspects have been identified.
Following the burglaries, numerous tips from the community proved instrumental in providing valuable leads and identifying potential suspects. Despite facing challenges during suspect interviews, where the individuals displayed arrogance and defiance, the investigation progressed through multiple avenues.
To strengthen the case, search warrants were obtained to collect DNA samples from two juveniles alleged to be involved. The samples were collected at Huntington High School following all legal protocols and sent to the DPS lab in Houston for analysis.
Further evidence was gathered through search warrants for the Snapchat accounts of both suspects, which provided additional proof of their involvement. Cell tower data was also secured to establish the presence of the suspects' phones at the crime scenes during the time of the burglaries. This digital evidence was crucial as the suspects wore masks, obscuring their identities.
Detective Norman Williams spearheaded the complex investigation, demonstrating exceptional expertise and commitment in piecing together the events of December 30, 2024. The case has now been forwarded to the Angelina County Juvenile Probation Department awaiting the apprehension of both juveniles, who have each been charged with two counts of burglary of a building, a state jail felony.
