Deputies with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office are asking residents to help locate a third suspect in an organized golf‑cart theft operation that has plagued The Villages’ Lake Sumter Landing area over the past few weeks.
Warrant issued for Jeffery Vincent Woods
An arrest warrant has been issued for 47‑year‑old Jeffery Vincent Woods, whose last known address was in neighboring Marion County. Detectives say they have received tips suggesting Woods may have left the area, but his whereabouts remain unknown.
Earlier arrests and how the thefts unfolded
Police previously identified and arrested two other men, 39‑year‑old David Timothy Andrews and 54‑year‑old Steven Santiago, on Tuesday. According to the sheriff’s office, the suspects allegedly hot‑wired golf carts, drove them to nearby businesses, and left the vehicles parked overnight. They then attempted to sell the stolen carts on Facebook Marketplace before returning to retrieve them.
Investigators have recovered three of the stolen carts—two reported stolen to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and one reported to the Lady Lake police department. Authorities believe additional victims and stolen carts may still be linked to the operation.
How the community can assist
The sheriff’s office urges anyone with information about Woods’ location to call the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office at 352‑569‑1600. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the department’s online tip portal.
Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially attempts to sell or advertise golf carts online without proper ownership documentation.
Public‑safety impact
Thefts of golf carts have disrupted daily life for many retirees and families who rely on these vehicles for transportation within The Villages’ sprawling retirement community. By swiftly apprehending two suspects and continuing the search for the third, law enforcement aims to restore confidence and safety for residents.
The investigation underscores the importance of community cooperation with local law‑enforcement agencies in addressing property crimes that affect the quality of life in our neighborhoods.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
