Daytona Beach, FL - Seven people are in the Volusia County Jail, some on no bond, facing charges that include grand theft auto, grand theft under $20,000 and drug charges.
A weeklong investigation began when Volusia County sheriff's detectives were tipped off that two vehicles that were stolen from an empty home in DeLeon Springs were seen in Daytona Beach. Investigators say that the suspects also burglarized that home, helping themselves to at least $9,000 worth of patio and home property and materials.
The first arrests came when deputies spotted one of the vehicles on LPGA Blvd. at 1:15 a.m. this past Monday. At that time, they arrested 38-year-old Steve Wilmoth, 38-year-old Brandi Hassan, and 42-year-old Lisa Findley. All were charged with grand theft auto. Two hours later, the other vehicle was found unoccupied in Port Orange.
On Monday, a search warrant was issued for 1374 Taylor St., in Daytona Beach. Three stolen vehicles were found at the address, along with the items taken from the empty house in DeLeon Springs. Arrested at the home are 49-year-old Daren Usher and 44-year-old Nancy Iozzi. Both were charged with two counts of grand theft auto and one count each of grand theft under $20,000.
Detectives located a 2014 Chevrolet Equinox at the home during the execution of the search warrant. The vehicle's registered owner, 29-year-old Mellissa Whitley and her boyfriend, 32-year-old Phillip Iozzi. They were both charged with possession of methamphetamines and marijuana under 20 grams.
The investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected.
