(Draco pistol with drum magazine loaded with 29 rounds of 9mm ammo, Image credit: VBPD)
On February 11, the Vero Beach Police Department (VBPD) reported on an unusual and terrifying case of criminal trespass that went down earlier this month involving a man carrying a deadly weapon, his female cohort, and an attempted break in. According to police, on February 3, VBPD officers responded to the area of 9th Avenue and 19th Place regarding a report of a man and woman trespassing on several residents’ properties and attempting to open doors.
When confronted by one of the homeowners, the male pointed a “small rifle” at her and then fled on foot with the female. After a search of the area and a short foot pursuit, both subjects were located and detained by VBPD officers in the Miracle Mile area. During the time of arrest, no gun was located, and both suspects exhibited erratic behavior and were extremely uncooperative.
A more thorough search begun in the area of 9th Avenue and 19th Place where officers located a “Draco” pistol with a “drum” magazine loaded with 29 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The firearm was located under a porch at an abandoned residence.
The male trespasser, identified as Lennie Wells, was ultimately charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Loitering or Prowling, and Resisting Arrest Without Violence. Wells is currently incarcerated at the Indian River County Jail on a $40,000 bond.
The female, identified as Akia Taylor, was ultimately charged with Loitering or Prowling, and Resisting Arrest Without Violence. Taylor has since posted bond.
The Vero Beach Police Department thanked the brave victim who called the police and provided a detailed description which led to the apprehension of Wells and Taylor. They also commended witnesses in the area who assisted officers in locating the firearm.
“The collaborative effort between the citizens and our officers continue to make a safer community,” police said.
(9th Ave and 19th Pl, Vero Beach, Image credit: Google Maps)
(Cover photo, Lennie Wells and Akia Taylor booking photos, Image credits: VBPD)
