ALACHUA – An anonymous Crime Stoppers tip helped Alachua police identify and arrest a 17-year-old accused of causing an estimated $60,000 in damage to the clubhouse and gym facilities at One 51 Place Apartments.
Brady Dixon, 17, of Alachua, was arrested June 23 after investigators obtained a warrant in connection with a burglary and criminal mischief investigation stemming from an incident that occurred in late May, according to the Alachua Police Department.
Police said Dixon was identified after a member of the public submitted an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of North Central Florida following a social media post released by the department seeking help in identifying the suspect.
Dixon was transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center following his arrest.
According to investigators, the incident occurred on May 26 at approximately 5:14 a.m. Police said Dixon, who was not a resident of One 51 Place Apartments, entered the clubhouse and gym area through an emergency exit door located on the rear side of the gym.
Once inside, Dixon allegedly caused extensive damage by ripping a bathroom vanity from the wall. The damage resulted in significant flooding throughout the gym, clubhouse and basketball court areas, police said.
Authorities estimate the resulting damage at approximately $60,000.
Dixon faces charges of burglary of a structure causing damage in excess of $1,000 and criminal mischief causing damage of $1,000 or more.
The arrest comes nearly a month after the incident and follows an investigation that relied in part on information provided by the public.
In announcing the arrest, the Alachua Police Department thanked community members for assisting in the investigation.
“The Alachua Police Department takes these cases seriously,” the department stated in a release. “Acts that cause damage to local homes, businesses, and community facilities impact everyone, and we remain committed to holding those responsible accountable.”
The department also emphasized the role community members played in helping identify the suspect.
“Your willingness to speak up, share information, and support law enforcement directly helps keep Alachua safe,” the release stated. “Community partnerships like this make a real difference in protecting our neighborhoods and shared spaces.”
The charges remain allegations, and Dixon is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
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