Attorney discusses legal implications for Lawrence Co. teens charged after stolen car chase and drive-by shooting

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – On Friday WAFF learned of three teenagers accused of drive-by shootingswho stole a vehicle and led police on a chase through Morgan and Lawrence counties were arrested.

Officials with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office said these teens were also involved in two separate drive-bys in the county in early November. Officers also believe the teens drove a stolen Cadillac and went on a chase that ended in Decatur.

Lawrence County officials said the shootings occurred on County Road 460, and a witness said the teens fired shots at their vehicle before eventually fleeing the scene.

Defense attorney Chad Morgan said those actions could lead to the teens being charged with shooting into an occupied vehicle and theft.

“I would probably think that prosecutors in those jurisdictions are likely to charge adults for such activities,” Morgan said. “It has a lot to do with what the outcome is and also the level of charges that are brought against these juveniles – the worse the charge, the greater the likelihood that you will be charged as an adult.”

Officers also said the chase ended with the teens colliding with another driver. Officials said the driver was taken to the hospital and his condition is unknown at this time.

Why is car theft so common among teenagers? Morgan says it could be for several reasons.

“A lot of time because the juveniles are taking vehicles, don’t have their own vehicle or are trying to use the vehicle for other, illegal purposes,” Morgan said.

The names of the suspects have not been released unless they are charged as adults.

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