The teens are charged with second-degree burglary and destruction of property, according to Baltimore County Police. Business owners have been left dealing with damage and repairs. Police have not released additional information about the investigation, saying the suspects’ ages limit what they can disclose.

The arrests have prompted a discussion among residents about how to respond to youth crime. Some called for consequences, while others emphasized investments that could help prevent young people from becoming involved in crime.

“There’s no accountability,” resident Brian Kight said, arguing that a lack of consequences allows the problem to continue. Franklin Laws said the situation was troubling, and described seeing petty theft at a store where he works.

Khorie Gibson pointed to economic pressures and urged more support for young people. He called for funding youth groups and programs, as well as community centers where teenagers can gather. Another resident similarly said more spaces could bring young people together rather than leave them feeling disconnected.

The police have not said when investigators determined the incidents were connected or whether the teens had prior contact with law enforcement. The cases put a familiar question before the community: how to hold young people accountable while also addressing the conditions and lack of support that residents say can contribute to crime.