Dezmon Javaris Jones (Image: Columbia Police Dept.)
Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Police say a third suspect has turned himself over to authorities in connection with a series of dog thefts from the Columbia Animal Shelter.
Columbia police say 25-year-old Dezmon Javaris Jones was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon.
Sunday, 17-year-old Raven Lamar Perry and a 13-year-old were arrested.
Officers say the group stole pit bulls on three separate occasions over a three week period; in fact, officers say Jones and the 13-year-old were arrested while trying to break in again and take more dogs.
Officers say after the arrests, 17 dogs were found at a home in Bamberg County.
In addition to the charges relating to the dogs, Jones also will be charged with contributing to the deliquency of a minor.
Another 13-year-old has yet to turn himself in. Anyone with additional information in the case is asked to call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.