Cops: Antonio Hornsby likely stealing wallets while on the run

Athens, Ga (GradyNewSource.com) – Athens-Clarke County police first noticed Antonio Hornsby when he allegedly stole at least five wallets in the Athens area earlier this month. Now he’s on the run in a stolen car and police believe he’s continuing to steal wallets while on the move.

Statewide, authorities are reporting thefts similar to those Hornsby committed here in Athens: simply walking into shops and grabbing wallets when employees turn their backs. Hornsby was spotted in at least five Athens-area establishments during a 5-day crime spree.

Delta Thomas, who works at an Athens medical clinic, came across Hornsby inside their facility last week. Thomas, suspecting something was wrong, escorted Hornsby out of the building before he was able to steal personal items. Thomas and her colleagues are the only known establishment visited by Hornsby to not fall victim.

Using surveillance cameras, police retraced Hornsby’s steps, who also stole a wallet from the front office of Timothy Road Elementary School.

Police say Hornsby is now on the run, likely headed to to Tampa, where he has family and a criminal history. While enroute, police feel Hornsby may be behind wallet thefts in Gwinnett and Jones counties – and just Monday in Valdosta.

Hornsby is described as black male, 5 feet 11 inches and 260 pounds. He is believed to be driving a stolen tan and gold 1994 Buick Regal with Georgia license plate GA803I. The car belongs to Hornsby’s family, who Hornsby had been staying with in Athens.