Columbus Police Arrest Suspect Linked to Dozens of Vehicle Break-Ins
COLUMBUS, Ga. — A months-long investigation into a string of vehicle break-ins in the Schomburg Road area has led to the arrest of a 22-year-old suspect connected to more than 20 cases, according to the Columbus Police Department.
Detectives with the department’s Property Crimes Unit identified Trevian Hipp as the suspect following several weeks of investigation into the incidents.
On February 19, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant at Hipp’s residence, where he was located and taken into custody without incident.
During the search, detectives recovered significant evidence tied to the crimes, including three firearms — two of which were reported stolen — along with multiple bank cards belonging to victims of entering auto cases. Officers also located additional bank cards and personal documents, masks, gloves, clothing matching surveillance footage, and a window-punching tool commonly used in vehicle break-ins.
Police said further examination of the recovered property uncovered additional victims, resulting in expanded charges.
The investigation has cleared 20 cases involving 24 victims and led to a total of 35 charges against Hipp, including:
- Entering Auto (21 counts)
- Criminal Attempt Entering Auto
- Theft by Receiving Stolen Property (Firearm) – 2 counts
- Theft by Taking (Motor Vehicle)
- Financial Transaction Card Theft – 10 counts
In total, three firearms were recovered during the investigation.
Hipp is scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court for a preliminary hearing on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.
