THOMASVILLE — A 16-year-old boy has been charged with 19 counts of criminal street gang activity in the burglary of and damage to vehicles at a U.S. 19 South business.

Girls ages 14 and 15 also are charged in the incident that took place Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

The trio vandalized and entered vehicles, including tractor-trailers, said Lt. Tim Watkins, Thomas County Sheriff’s Office chief investigator.

“They spray-painted gang graffiti on vehicles and broke windows,” Watkins said.

The boy was charged with multiple counts of criminal street gang activity because of what he told officers. The teen suspect told officers he is a member of the Bloods gang.

“He claims to be affiliated with a gang,” Watkins said. 

The boy and both females are charged with multiple counts of burglary, criminal damage to property and entering auto.

Watkins said the suspects kicked in a door at the business, burglarized the building and damaged vending machines.

The teens admitted the criminal activity and were released to their parents.

Watkins said the teens have been involved in previous illegal activity.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820