VALDOSTA – A 17-year-old Valdosta resident stole a vehicle on Toombs Street, then fled on foot from a VPD deputy.

Release:

Arrested: Jayleen Scott, African American male, 17 years of age, Valdosta resident

On May 13, 2024, at approximately 2:15 am., Valdosta Police Officers responded to the area of the 1000 block of North Toombs Street, after a citizen called E911 to report that her vehicle had been stolen and she was following it.  The citizen reported that she had left her vehicle running while she ran inside a store, which was located in the 1400 block of North Troup Street.  While she was briefly inside, an unknown person, later identified as Jayleen Scott, 17 years of age, got into the driver’s seat and fled the area in her vehicle.  While driving the vehicle, Scott struck a couple of vehicles and mailboxes.

The victim followed the vehicle until she reached the area of the 1000 block of North Toombs Street.  A deputy with the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office observed the vehicle and attempted to conduct a traffic stop.  Scott ran from the vehicle.

A K9 Unit from the Valdosta Police Department responded to the area and was utilized to check the area for Scott.  The K9 tracked for several blocks, before alerting to an area underneath a residence.  Officers gave multiple verbal commands and Scott crawled out from under the house.

Scott was taken into custody without incident. He was taken to Lowndes County Jail for:

• Theft by taking-motor vehicle-felony;
• Hit and run-misdemeanor;
• Disregard Traffic Control device-misdemeanor; and
• Driving while not licensed

“This is another example of the great teamwork between law enforcement agencies in our area.  Through teamwork and a K9 with a strong dedication and drive, this offender was taken into custody quickly.” Said Chief Leslie Manahan.

If anyone has any further information on this case or any other cases, please contact the Valdosta Police Department Bureau of Investigative Services at 229-293-3145, the crime tip line at 229-293-3091, or file a tip online at www.valdostacity.com/police-department.