Brooksville teen accused of slashing tires, breaking windows

An 18-year-old was arrested Monday morning following accusations he vandalized a home and car the previous night.

James Robert Wheeler III, of 25114 Evaline St. in Brooksville, was charged with criminal mischief. His bail was set at $1,000.

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office responded shortly after 11 p.m. to 29313 Wilpayne Road following reports of broken windows.

A man said he woke up to the sound of broken glass and saw a man get into a newer-model white car and drive away. The man's roommate saw the same thing and noticed her vehicle – which was parked in front of the house – had smashed windows and flat front tires, according to an arrest affidavit.

A small black baseball bat was left behind near the house and a brick was found lying in the backseat of the damaged vehicle, deputies said.

The male occupant of the house said he suspected Wheeler was the culprit. Deputies spoke with Wheeler a short time later and he admitted to the crime, according to the sheriff's office.