Skip to main content

Teen 'Go-Kart Bandit' Nabbed After 100 Break-ins

By Edward Tan, JD on May 08, 2012 | Last updated on February 06, 2023

First there was the Sundance Kid, and now there's the "go-kart bandit." A 14-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with about 100 home burglaries in Nashville, Tenn., the New York Daily News reports. The teen's name wasn't released because he's a minor. But police believe the young suspect stole and vandalized homes in at least four different neighborhoods. The teen allegedly found his targets by trolling the alleys behind homes in a go-kart. He got in by kicking in the back doors. So what would he steal? And more importantly, where were his parents? The go-kart bandit suspect stole mostly video games and televisions, along with anything else he could grab. Because what else would a teenage boy want? As for his parents, he lost them both, according to police. It's not clear who the child's guardian is. The teen was charged in juvenile court with aggravated burglary, burglary, theft, possession of burglary tools, and loitering during school hours. Traditionally, burglary was defined as breaking and entering a person's home at night with intent to commit a felony. Nowadays, most states, including Tennessee, have dropped the night, home, and breaking-in requirements. Today, for instance, one can still commit a burglary even if he enters a closed store through an open door in the morning. In Tennessee, aggravated burglary is charged as a Class B felony. If convicted, a person can possibly face up 30 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. But since the suspect in this case is a minor, he likely isn't going to get anything nearly that harsh. Which is lucky for him because he's been arrested several times before, including twice for burglary. Though police say they feel bad for him, now that the go-kart bandit has been caught, Nashville residents will be able to sleep a little more soundly. Related Resources:
Copied to clipboard