Columbus police announced 10 juveniles were indicted for a series of car thefts and robberies during a span of 10 months last year.
Police announced the indictments at a Tuesday press conference and said the group of teens was aided by an adult, Tanisha Jenkins, who was already convicted and sentenced on charges she helped fence stolen firearms. CPD said the juveniles, who weren't named, stole dozens of vehicles, credit cards and firearms as well as more than half a million dollars worth of other items between February and November of 2025.
Police made the announcement in front of the Home2 Suites Hotel, located at 3035 Stelzer Road, which authorities said was targeted by the teens.
Police also said some of the juveniles were Jenkins' children.
Sgt. Shawn Gruber, with CPD's gang enforcement team, said residents can help prevent car thefts like these.
"First off, don't leave your firearms in your cars, please. That causes dangers in a whole different realm than just what we're talking about right here. Second, please report it because we can actually solve these crimes," Gruber said.
Gruber added that he hopes these arrests send a message to the community.
"A lot of juveniles are terribly brazen, and yes, between you and me, I hope it does send a message that you can't for two years commit crimes like this, and especially start moving into the violent realm of things without us understanding, knowing and conducting an investigation," Gruber said.
CPD Commander Tyler Wells said each of the arrested juveniles has a history of "criminality" pointing to convictions in 37 cumulative felony cases, 35 of which resulted in either probation, restitution or even a simple letter of apology.
"It's also important to note that this group of juveniles was not simply some young people making mistakes. They were already very well-versed in the criminal justice system, and had repeatedly demonstrated a disregard for all previous consequences given to them," Wells said.
Wells called on the juvenile criminal justice system to "do its part" now that the group has been indicted.
