By GARRETT VALCOURT
WASHINGTON COUNTY, FL — A Vernon resident has been arrested and is currently detained in Hillsborough County on multiple felony charges following the theft of a vehicle.
On June 7th, deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) were dispatched to an address on State Road 79 in response to a report of a stolen vehicle. The owner of the vehicle reported that his Ford Explorer was parked outside his residence the previous night, but was missing when he awoke.
WCSO Investigators were promptly notified and, within seven hours, located the stolen vehicle at an address in Hillsborough County. Michael Todd Allen, a 34-year-old neighbor and person of interest, admitted to the owner that he knew the vehicle’s whereabouts.
Further investigation determined that Allen was in possession of the stolen vehicle at a Hillsborough County location. The vehicle was discovered in an alleyway, where Hillsborough County deputies attempted to make contact with Allen. Allen fled to a nearby Publix parking lot, exited the vehicle, and continued on foot. After a brief foot pursuit, he was apprehended.
Allen was arrested and transported to the Hillsborough County Jail. He faces charges of resisting an officer without violence, felony fleeing to elude, and driving with a suspended or revoked license. Additionally, Allen had an outstanding warrant for driving with a suspended or revoked license (DWLSR) out of Pasco County. He will be extradited back to Washington County to face charges of grand theft of a motor vehicle.
Staff Report