for immediate release
December 30, 2003
N E W S R E L E A S E
Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with the vandalism of Christmas
decorations at approximately 20 residences in Destin.
Arrested this morning (Tuesday morning) was Christopher Michael Hinton (pictured left), age 17 (3-25-1986), of Indian Woman Road, Santa Rosa Beach. A co-defendant, James Michael Strahan (pictured right), age 18 (11-7-1985), of Misty Way, Destin, was arrested Christmas Eve. Both have admitted to vandalizing Christmas decorations the night of Saturday, December 20 and in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, December 21.
Both have been arrested on charges of Felony Criminal Mischief. Under Florida Law, Criminal Mischief is a felony offense if it involves property damage of $1,000 or more. In this instance, estimated damages exceed $4,000.
The investigation is continuing; two other known suspects are currently out of town and will be arrested later.
Information from citizens was valuable in the investigation, and a possible reward is pending through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers.
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for more information contact Sgt. Rick Hord, Public Information Officer
(850) 651-7420