Port St. Lucie Police successfully resolved a series of burglaries involving nearly 20 storage units at Ekonomy Self Storage in the St. Lucie West area, using fingerprint and license plate reading technology. The suspect, identified as Jimmy Ray Patterson, 52, from Melbourne, was arrested on May 16, 2025, according to official records.
Port St. Lucie Storage Unit Burglaries Investigation
The investigation began on May 3, 2025, when officers responded to Ekonomy Self Storage, located in the 2700 block of Southwest Buckhardt Street. Upon arrival, police found that locks had been cut from 19 storage units, prompting an extensive investigation.
According to police spokesperson Sgt. Dominick Mesiti, surveillance footage indicated the suspect manipulated exterior cameras to avoid detection. The suspect was first captured on camera at approximately 12:19 a.m., before repositioning several cameras away from his activities.
Fingerprint and License Plate Technology Key to Arrest
Port St. Lucie police utilized advanced investigative tools, including fingerprint analysis and license plate reader technology, to identify Patterson. Investigators discovered Patterson’s fingerprint on a GMC Sierra parked at the storage facility. The vehicle’s owner reported a 12-inch speaker and amplifier stolen, stating he did not know Patterson.
License plate reader technology further assisted investigators, capturing images of a dark-colored truck matching the suspect’s vehicle description near Southwest Gatlin Boulevard and Interstate 95 northbound around 1:38 a.m. The truck was described as an older model crew cab Dodge Ram with aftermarket rims, tires, and a large front windshield light bar.
Suspect’s Criminal History and Previous Arrests
Records indicate Patterson has an extensive criminal history, with five felony convictions in Florida. He has previously faced charges in Seminole, Brevard, Pasco, Volusia, and Martin counties, as well as arrests in Tennessee and Texas. Patterson was released from state prison in January 2025, according to the Florida Department of Corrections.
In addition to the Port St. Lucie burglaries, Patterson was arrested in connection with similar storage locker burglaries in Stuart and Palm City in July 2023. Those cases remain active in the court system. Patterson’s arrest highlights ongoing concerns regarding traveling criminal activity in Port St. Lucie.
Charges and Current Status
Patterson faces multiple charges, including 20 counts each of burglary of a structure and criminal mischief ($200 or less), one count of burglary of a conveyance, and one count of third-degree grand theft. As of May 20, 2025, Patterson remained in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail, held on a $120,000 bond.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
While no significant valuables were reported stolen from most units, the incident highlights the importance of enhanced security measures. Ekonomy Self Storage management noted they conduct daily inspections, which initially revealed the burglaries.
Port St. Lucie police encourage residents and business owners to remain vigilant, secure their properties, and report suspicious activities promptly. Recent incidents, such as the arrest of a St. Lucie County deputy for road rage and burglary, underline the importance of community vigilance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Burglaries
What is the recent storage unit burglary case in Port St. Lucie?
In May 2025, nearly 20 storage units at Ekonomy Self Storage in Port St. Lucie were burglarized. Police arrested Jimmy Ray Patterson using fingerprint and license plate reader technology.
How did Port St. Lucie police identify the burglary suspect?
Police used advanced fingerprint analysis and license plate reader technology to identify Jimmy Ray Patterson. His fingerprint was found on a vehicle at the crime scene.
Are there increased security measures at storage facilities in PSL?
Yes, many storage facilities in Port St. Lucie conduct daily inspections and use surveillance cameras. Police recommend additional security measures to prevent burglaries.
Can residents help prevent burglaries in Port St. Lucie?
Residents can help by reporting suspicious activity immediately, securing storage units with strong locks, and using well-lit, secure facilities.
Where are the storage units that were burglarized?
The burglaries occurred at Ekonomy Self Storage located on Southwest Buckhardt Street in the St. Lucie West area of Port St. Lucie. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, including the recent arrest of three traveling criminals by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
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