A South Carolina teenager is behind bars after being linked to a pair of break-ins in Gwinnett County, including an attempted ATM robbery in Dacula. The Gwinnett County Police Department arrested 19-year-old Abraham John Brownell on Friday, Sept. 13, after he was located near a bus stop on Hamilton Mill Road.
The Details: On the night of Sept. 12, Brownell was caught on surveillance footage attempting to break into the ATM at the Synovus Bank located on Braselton Highway. Armed with bolt cutters and a large stone, Brownell tried to force the machine open but was unsuccessful. The bank’s security system triggered a 911 call, and officers arrived at the scene just as Brownell fled on foot.
Investigators later tied him to a burglary at the Verizon Wireless store on Hamilton Mill Road the night before, where Brownell allegedly entered the store and caused significant damage.
Arrest and Charges: Brownell was arrested the following day without incident. He is facing several charges, including second-degree burglary, criminal damage to property, and entering an automobile with intent to commit theft. He remains in custody at the Gwinnett County Jail.
What’s Next?: Gwinnett County detectives are continuing their investigation. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to come forward, with Crime Stoppers offering cash rewards for tips that lead to further arrests or indictments.
As the case unfolds, Brownell’s charges could grow if more crimes are linked to his crime spree.
