Baffling Break-In: Suspect Claims Hearing Screams, Tests Positive for Meth

In a bizarre turn of events, a DeLand man was arrested for burglary after allegedly breaking into a screened-in porch while children were home. The suspect claimed he heard kids screaming inside, leading to a sequence of events that has left authorities and the community puzzled.

Suspect's Erratic Behavior, Positive Meth Test Raise Eyebrows

Flagged Down by Concerned Residents

A deputy patrolling U.S. Highway 42 was flagged down by a couple in a red Jeep Wrangler who reported that their children had just called to say a man had broken into their house. The couple directed the deputy to the suspect's location, and he approached the man, later identified as 34-year-old Timothy Allen Gunter.

Suspect's Spontaneous Confession and Incriminating Evidence

Gunter immediately claimed to the deputy that he had just obtained some "bad drugs" from an unspecified source. He handed over his ID and a baggie containing a clear, crystal-like substance, which later tested presumptive positive for methamphetamine. Gunter also admitted to having a history of extensive drug use and wanted the substance tested to ensure it wouldn't "kill someone."

Matching the Suspect to the Crime Scene

While the deputy was on the scene, the Lake County Communications Center received a call reporting a burglary. The female victim provided a picture of the suspect, which matched Gunter's appearance, leading the deputy to detain him before heading to the victim's residence.

Eyewitness Account and Victim's Statement

The victim told the deputy that Gunter had broken the locked wooden door on her porch and entered the screened-in area. Her children, who were home at the time, recorded Gunter on the porch looking into the window and attempting to get through the locked door leading to the living room where they were. The children then got the dogs out of the back room, and Gunter left the residence. The victim called a neighbor for assistance.

Neighbor's Observation and Gunter's Shifting Explanations

The neighbor stated that after the victim's call, he saw a man matching Gunter's description leaving the property. Gunter had removed a yellow shirt, revealing a white shirt underneath. When questioned, Gunter initially claimed he entered the residence because he heard dogs barking, but later changed his story, saying he entered due to hearing kids screaming.

Gunter's Medical Incident and Refusal of Treatment

During the arrest process, Gunter claimed to have chest pains and shortness of breath, leading the deputy to call for emergency medical services. However, Gunter refused any treatment in the ambulance and at the hospital, where he was discharged without receiving any medical attention.

Charges and Bail

Gunter was charged with burglary of an occupied dwelling (unarmed), possession of methamphetamine, and criminal mischief (damage to property less than $200). He was taken to the Lake County Jail, where his bond was set at $18,000.This bizarre incident has raised many questions and concerns within the community. The suspect's erratic behavior, positive drug test, and shifting explanations have only added to the mystery surrounding this case. As authorities continue to investigate, the public remains vigilant, hoping for a resolution that will provide answers and a sense of security in their neighborhood.