Downtown Orlando woke up to a costly mess last week after what police describe as a one-man glass-smashing rampage that left storefronts, homes and cars with an estimated $70,000 in damage. The suspect is now in custody, facing more than a dozen criminal mischief charges as businesses board up shattered windows and residents start tallying repairs.
According to ClickOrlando, surveillance video from several cameras shows a man, identified by police as 43-year-old Jean Luckner Charmant, using what officers call a metal tool to smash glass. Investigators say they tracked him down later that same day, and he reportedly admitted to the vandalism during questioning.
Damage stretched across downtown blocks
Historic storefronts along Church Street and blocks between Garland and Orange avenues took some of the worst hits, with windows boarded over and broken glass scattered across floors, according to WESH. The outlet reports police put the total damage at roughly $70,000. Security cameras captured multiple incidents affecting everything from residential units to commercial buildings and parked cars.
How police tracked him down
Investigators say a patchwork of security and doorbell camera footage gave them a near-continuous trail to follow and led them to the neighborhood where officers arrested the suspect, according to WFTV. Reporting from FOX 35 Orlando adds that officers also recovered a large metal object they say was used to bash in the windows when they took him into custody.
Charges and next steps
Police have charged the suspect with seven felony counts of criminal mischief for incidents involving damage over $1,000 and five misdemeanor counts for lower-cost damage, per ClickOrlando. His bond was set at $20,000, and he remained in the Orange County Jail awaiting arraignment, according to the reporting.
Neighbors describe the night
“Yeah, it was a little frightening,” one neighbor told reporters after glass exploded at his building, according to WESH. Residents said the sound of breaking glass jolted people awake and rattled nerves, though police reported no injuries. Several storefronts and residential entry doors are now temporarily covered with plywood as owners work out repairs.
How to report tips
Anyone with information is urged to contact Orlando police or leave an anonymous tip with Central Florida Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS. In an emergency, call 911. For nonemergencies, the Orlando Police nonemergency line can assist residents with filing reports.
