Man takes hammer to ex-girlfriend’s car in revenge plot only to realize he made a major mistake, cops say
Inset: Justin Allen. Background: Allen after his arrest for allegedly breaking into what he thought was his ex-girlfriend's SUV in Ormond-by-the-Sea, Florida (Volusia County Sheriff's Office).
A Florida man ended up targeting the wrong vehicle in a failed attempt to get back at his ex-girlfriend, authorities say.
Justin Allen, 37, allegedly showed up at a Publix in Ormond-by-the-Sea with a hammer Friday morning, intending to damage his ex’s car. Allen broke a window and started hitting the radio—but the vehicle actually belonged to a Publix employee, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded around 11 a.m. after receiving reports of a burglary in progress. When they arrived, Allen was inside the SUV with the hammer, and the car alarm was blaring. Body camera footage shows Allen telling deputies he was seeking revenge on his ex.
“F—ing b— thinks she can do whatever she wants,” Allen reportedly said. He also accused his ex of stealing his anxiety medication.
Allen was taken into custody without further incident. Authorities say he caused approximately $17,000 in damage.
The situation drew support from the local community. Zachary Yeoman, owner of Daytona Nissan Infiniti, offered the affected employee a free rental car and is assisting with repairs. “I talked to the manager where she works, and he said she’s one of the hardest workers there,” Yeoman told NBC affiliate WESH. “She still came to work, no excuses.”
Allen faces multiple charges, including burglary of an unoccupied conveyance and criminal mischief. He posted a $10,500 bond at the Volusia County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 17.
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