Austin Mellender jailed for felony auto theft & two handguns

18-year-old Austin Michael Mellender is jailed in lieu of a $50,000 bond charged with the theft of a 2020 Ford Escape from Rheann Vera. Officers located him inside the vehicle with two male juveniles, ages 13 and 14, on Pageant Lane with 15 grams of marijuana and a loaded .22 magnum revolver, which was also reported stolen. He attempted to flee during the arrest but was captured after a brief foot chase. A search also revealed a 9mm handgun in the pocket of his hoodie. During an interview, it was learned all three individuals participated in the vehicle theft.

Read More