VALDOSTA, Ga. — A 30-year-old Valdosta man, Willie Clarence Miller III, was arrested on December 15, 2024, after being caught allegedly damaging a vehicle in the Publix parking lot. The incident occurred around 8:00 AM when numerous citizens called E911 reporting that a man was seen hitting the vehicle’s window with a rock, causing damage.
Within minutes of the calls, Valdosta Police Officers arrived at the scene and found Miller sitting in the damaged vehicle. The front driver’s side window of the car was shattered, and the frame was also visibly damaged. Additionally, the vehicle’s car alarm had been activated, drawing attention to the scene.
Officers quickly detained Miller without incident after ordering him out of the vehicle. Upon further investigation, they located the vehicle’s owner, who confirmed she did not know Miller and had not given him permission to be inside her car.
During a search of Miller, officers found a small amount of marijuana in his possession. Additionally, it was discovered that he had an active arrest warrant, unrelated to the current case.
Miller was transported to the Lowndes County Jail and has been charged with several offenses, including:
Criminal attempt to commit a felony (Felony)
Theft by entering auto (Felony)
Possession of tools for the commission of a crime (Felony)
Criminal trespass damage to property (Misdemeanor)
Misdemeanor possession of marijuana
Chief Leslie Manahan praised the quick response by the officers who arrived at the scene and apprehended the suspect while still in the vehicle. He also commended the citizens who provided helpful information to the E911 dispatcher and officers, aiding in the swift resolution of the situation.
Anyone with additional information related to this case or other incidents is encouraged to contact the Valdosta Police Department Bureau of Investigative Services at 229-293-3145, the crime tip line at 229-293-3091, or submit a tip online via the Valdosta Police website.
