The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Florida man was arrested when he reportedly celebrated his birthday by using methamphetamine and picking up passengers with a sightseeing train that he allegedly hijacked.
According to their website, the Conch Tour Train in Key West provides a “close-up view of the Southernmost City’s most popular places, including Mallory Square, Sails to Rails Museum, the Key West Aquarium and more.” On July 4, a 57-year-old man went to the depot and talked to one of the employees. He reportedly said he used to work there and wanted a tour of one of the sightseeing trains, and the worker gave him a set of keys. Instead of merely checking out the vehicle, the man reportedly drove away in it and expanded his tour to include part of the city.
The authorities were notified about the situation, and officers from the Key West Police Department went to the depot. They learned that a running vehicle with the stereo on was left in the parking lot, and it was assumed that it belonged to the alleged train thief. The trackless vehicle, which had a GPS tracking unit onboard, was discovered and retrieved by an employee. They said the man who drove off with the train also picked up two passengers.
When the police found the suspect, they reported that he told them it was his birthday. They took the man into custody, and he was allegedly found with a pipe believed to be used for smoking meth. He was booked into the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Key West Jail. He is facing preliminary charges of burglary, grand theft auto, and possession of drug paraphernalia. According to reports, at the time this was written, he was being held in lieu of a $60,000 bond.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a theft or drug offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.