Florida Teen Claims Federal Ties During Daytona Beach Car Theft Arrest as Bodycam Shows Tense Police Encounter

FLORIDA — Newly released body-camera footage from Daytona Beach, Florida, reveals the arrest of an 18-year-old accused of attempting to steal multiple vehicles from a local car dealership, an incident that escalated into a tense confrontation where the suspect allegedly made threats and claimed his family had federal law-enforcement connections.

Police say the arrest took place January 14 at a car dealership located on Tomoka Farms Road in Daytona Beach, drawing attention after footage showed officers deploying a Taser and restraining the suspect following repeated attempts to enter vehicles.

Daytona Beach Police Respond to Attempted Vehicle Thefts

According to the Daytona Beach Police Department, officers were called to the dealership after reports of a man trying to steal several vehicles from the lot. Investigators identified the suspect as Jayden Brown, an 18-year-old from Palm Coast, Florida.

Officers say Brown entered a vehicle inside a service bay and attempted to start it but was unable to operate the car. He then allegedly ran toward another vehicle pulling into the lot, grabbing at the door handle before the driver sped away. Employees from nearby dealerships reportedly chased Brown before police intervened.

Bodycam Footage Shows Escalation and Arrest

Body-camera video shows officers confronting Brown as he tried to open the door of a pickup truck an officer had just exited. At that point, police deployed a Taser, after which Brown was handcuffed and placed under arrest.

Footage also captures Brown continuing to speak with officers after being restrained, at times appearing to taunt them while officers discussed the incident among themselves.

Suspect Allegedly Makes Threats and Claims Federal Connections

During the arrest, police report that Brown made repeated statements toward officers, including alleged threats and claims that his family members worked as federal agents. Officers say Brown suggested there would be consequences for arresting him, asserting that nearly everyone in his family and personal life held federal positions.

Authorities noted that these statements were made multiple times throughout the encounter, both before and after Brown was taken into custody.

Charges Filed and Court Proceedings Underway

Court records show that during Brown’s first court appearance on January 15, a judge found probable cause for several charges, including:

• Burglary of an occupied structure
• Criminal mischief under $200
• Three counts of attempted grand theft of a motor vehicle

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Brown was later released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to return to court in February for arraignment.

Investigation Continues in Volusia County

Police say the investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed. No injuries were reported during the incident, and no vehicles were successfully stolen.

Officials emphasized that attempted vehicle thefts at dealerships remain a concern across Volusia County, urging businesses to maintain security measures and encouraging the public to report suspicious activity immediately. Residents with information related to the case are encouraged to contact local law enforcement.

What are your thoughts on this case and the body-camera footage? Share your perspective with us in the comments and stay informed with continued coverage on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.