Two brothers are accused of stealing $15,000 worth of shutters from a Boynton Beach construction site, according to the Boynton Beach Police Department. The incident highlights concerns about theft at active construction areas in Boynton Beach, a problem that has also affected other Florida communities, such as when $100,000 in AC equipment was stolen from a Port St. Lucie site.
Boynton Beach Police Report $15K Shutter Theft
According to Boynton Beach Police, officers responded to the Seagate Condominiums construction site on Thursday. The call came after a neighbor observed two men dressed in black removing materials from a restricted area.
The neighbor, watching from a second-floor balcony, reported that the men loaded several white shutters into their vehicle. Police stated that the suspects were later identified as Denzel Lafrance, 29, and Willy Lafrance, 32.
Details of the Construction Site Burglary
Police said the construction area was clearly marked with signage reading “construction area” and was roped off. According to the preliminary Boynton Beach Police report, the suspects were seen taking materials from this restricted section, a scenario similar to other recent storage unit burglaries investigated by Port St. Lucie Police.
The neighbor’s detailed observation allowed officers to locate the suspects quickly. Police reported that Denzel Lafrance was found first and claimed he discovered the shutters “on the side of the road somewhere.” He then declined to answer further questions.
Suspects’ Statements and Police Findings
According to police, Willy Lafrance was apprehended shortly after. He told officers that he and his brother “do this for a living” and believed the shutters were abandoned because they were near a dumpster. However, officers stated there were no dumpsters in the area, and the materials were inside a roped-off, signed construction zone.
An official with the Seagate Condominiums was notified of the incident. The official confirmed to police that the six white shutters taken were valued at $15,000. The official also chose to pursue criminal charges against both suspects.
Criminal Charges and Ongoing Investigation
According to the Boynton Beach Police Department, probable cause was found to arrest both Denzel and Willy Lafrance. Each was booked on charges of grand theft and burglary.
Police emphasized that the investigation is ongoing. Details may be updated as the case progresses, according to official sources. In a related trend, authorities in the region are also dealing with financial crimes, such as when fraudsters stole over $70,000 from Wells Fargo cardholders in Port St. Lucie.
Role of Community in Reporting Crime
Boynton Beach Police highlighted the importance of community vigilance in this case. The neighbor’s prompt call and detailed description were key in the rapid response and apprehension of the suspects.
- Suspects: Denzel Lafrance, 29; Willy Lafrance, 32
- Location: Seagate Condominiums, Boynton Beach
- Value of stolen property: $15,000 (six white shutters)
- Charges: Grand theft, burglary
Frequently Asked Questions About Boynton Beach Construction Site Theft
What happened at the Boynton Beach construction site?
According to Boynton Beach Police, two brothers were accused of stealing $15,000 in shutters from the Seagate Condominiums construction site. The theft was reported by a neighbor who saw the suspects taking materials from a roped-off area.
How much were the stolen shutters worth?
Police stated that the six white shutters taken from the site were valued at $15,000, according to an official with the condominiums.
Are there other recent thefts at construction sites in Boynton Beach?
Police have not reported other recent thefts at this location. However, construction site theft is a concern throughout Boynton Beach and similar communities.
Can you report suspicious activity at construction sites in Boynton Beach?
Yes, the Boynton Beach Police Department encourages residents to report any suspicious activity near construction sites. Community tips can help prevent theft and support local safety.
Where are the Seagate Condominiums located?
The Seagate Condominiums are located in Boynton Beach, Florida. The recent theft occurred at their active construction site, according to police reports.
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