RCSD: Teen reported missing last month was “out on a crime spree”

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– A local teenager has been found safe after she was reported missing more than a week ago, but Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott say she was out on a crime spree.

Authorities 15-year-old Zmaiah Carter was reported missing January 25 and found late last night in Northeast Columbia, after deputies responded to reports of a home burglary on Cherry Stone Drive. The homeowner told Deputies they were gone for a few days and came home to disarray with missing items and found narcotics. Deputies say Carter was still on scene when they arrived, and she admitted to being at the home for several days with another person.

“Cases like these are frustrating. An entire community was searching for this missing teen, and it turns out she was just out on a crime spree,” Sheriff Lott said. “Our investigators worked tirelessly on this case and Zmaiah’s parents have been terrified and heart-broken waiting on answers. We are thankful that Zmaiah was found safe and hope that she makes better decisions in the future for her sake and her family.”

Investigators say the victim’s vehicles, which were parked at the home, also had significant damage.