Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook announces the arrest of a man accused of breaking into several cars and stealing valuable items.
Gregory Williams (DOB: 9-21-1969) is charged with several counts of Breaking into a Motor Vehicle, Larceny, as well as Failure to Stop on Police Command.
A North Region officer saw Williams committing an auto breaking at the 100 block of Canal Place Circle earlier this week. Williams is accused of ignoring repeated verbal police commands to stop running away from the scene. The patrolman caught up with Williams and after further investigation, made the lawful arrest. Williams was allegedly in possession of a book bag containing stolen items.
Williams is also accused of breaking into unlocked vehicles on Gadsden and Darlington Streets from August 12-13, 2016. In one case, Williams is accused of breaking a car window to gain access inside.
The suspect is further accused of stealing several items including loose change, sunglasses, a laptop, various phone charges and even an electric razor.
Here is a list of car theft prevention tips:
• Do not leave your vehicle unattended with keys in the ignition/No idling/Do not hide extra set of keys inside
• Always lock your vehicle’s doors
• Close windows/sunroof
• Do not leave valuables in plain view
• Consider anti-theft security devices / alarms
If your car is stolen:
Call 9-1-1
• Make sure you know the license plate and vehicle’s VIN numbers
• If you see someone stealing your car, try to get a good description of the suspect/suspects
It’s also beneficial to take a picture of your vehicle for record keeping purposes. You can give the picture to law enforcement to aid in the vehicle’s recovery.
There are city ordinances and state law prohibiting drivers from leaving their cars unattended:
For more information visit: https://www.columbiasc.net/…/enforce…/citations- ordinances/… and www.scstatehouse.gov – Section Code: 56-5-2570
It is also important to report auto breaking or larceny incidents to your local law enforcement agency. Williams is currently housed at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center (ASGDC).
All persons arrested/charged are presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Gregory Williams
ASGDC Booking Photograph