Staff Report

MICANOPY, Fla. – A 22-year-old from Williston, Charles Thomas Smith, found himself in police custody following an accusation of breaking into a Micanopy residence and making off with three firearms.

The incident unfolded on December 16 around 5 p.m. when the victim’s father discovered something amiss at his child’s home. Not only had the victim’s motorcycle been oddly relocated behind a cluster of trees, but there were also signs of a break-in. Concerned, the victim instructed his father to inspect the home for missing items, specifically firearms. The father confirmed that two pistols and a rifle were indeed missing.

While an Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy delved into this initial burglary, another call regarding a separate burglary surfaced approximately a mile away. Responding swiftly, the deputy found the second home in disarray, with items unfamiliar to the homeowner strewn about, including two of the missing firearms. The investigation also uncovered ammunition linked to the stolen handguns and a magazine corresponding to the stolen rifle.

After being read his Miranda rights, Smith confessed to entering the first residence and pilfering the three guns. He also admitted to attempting to steal the motorcycle, though he was unsuccessful in his efforts.

Smith now faces charges of armed burglary of a dwelling and grand theft. His criminal history includes a juvenile conviction from 2016, along with one adult felony and one misdemeanor, both of a violent nature. After failing to complete a probation period, he recently served an 18-month sentence for aggravated assault, which concluded with his release from prison on January 1, 2025.

Judge Susan Miller-Jones ordered him held without bail pending a hearing on a motion from the State Attorney’s office to hold him without bail until trial; if the judge denies the motion, bail will be set at that hearing.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.