3 arrested after series of West Ashley car break-ins, police say

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Charleston police arrested three people on multiple charges connected to car break-ins in the Grand Oaks neighborhood.

According to the department, officers responded to a late Thursday night call for an individual breaking into cars on Dorothy Drive.

“The first officer arrived and confronted three suspects actively trying to enter a car,” police said. “All three fled on foot.”

The three suspects were arrested with help from a K-9 officer after a foot chase.

Jalen Rahmond Ellis, 25, of North Charleston, is charged with three counts of breaking into a motor vehicle, two counts of tampering with a vehicle, and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

A 15- and 17-year-old, both of North Charleston, were each charged with three counts of breaking into a motor vehicle and two counts of tampering with a motor vehicle.

“While tracking down the suspects, neighborhood residents provided witness information and video camera footage that was crucial to making these arrests. We are grateful to everyone who was looking out for their neighbors during this incident,” police said.

Ellis was taken to the Al Cannon Detention Center, and the two juveniles were taken to the Department of Juvenile Justice.