The Umansky Law Firm

A 23-year-old US Army private is being held without bail in the Volusia County Branch Jail in Daytona Beach for allegedly stealing a military Humvee. He is charged with grand theft for the theft from Fort Stewart in Georgia.

Authorities claim the private ran out of gas and was pulled over on the side of I-95 early Tuesday morning. An officer approached what he believed to be a stranded motorist. The private was found sitting in the Humvee and had only his military identification card and no driver's license. He claimed he was taking the Humvee to Fort Lauderdale.

The officer alleges he became suspicious because the private did not have orders, a government fuel card, and was dressed in civilian clothing. The private was taken to a hotel and the Humvee towed until the story could be verified.

When authorities received word that the vehicle was stolen from the military base, the private was arrested. He is also going to be charged with absent without leave (AWOL) by the army.

It seems a bit harsh to hold this young man without bail over a stolen vehicle. Perhaps the local authorities are waiting for the military to come get him, but it is not as if he murdered someone. Rather than treating all those who allegedly break the law the same, there are degrees and everyone has the right to be treated as innocent until proven guilty.

If you or a family member has been charged with grand theft, please contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at the Umansky Law Firm. We serve clients in the Orange County and Orlando, Florida area, as well as the state of Florida.