Alachua County, FL – Two men were arrested early Saturday morning after an armed home invasion in Hawthorne led to a police pursuit and drug-related charges, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to a residence on SE 225th Drive around 2 a.m. on November 8, 2025, following reports of a burglary in progress. Investigators say 59-year-old Irving Vinales allegedly entered the home armed with a firearm, demanding money and information about another person he believed lived there. When unsuccessful, Vinales reportedly stole cash and the victim’s truck before fleeing the scene.
Law enforcement used real-time tracking to locate the stolen vehicle. With help from Gainesville Police and Florida Highway Patrol, troopers stopped the truck near 1300 E. University Avenue in Gainesville. Deputies detained the driver, 30-year-old Amir Sims, while Vinales allegedly tried to flee on foot. He was tasered and taken into custody after a short chase.
A search revealed over two grams of a substance testing positive for cocaine on Vinales, and more than four grams found in the vehicle. Deputies said Sims also had a suspended driver’s license.
Vinales faces charges including Home Invasion Robbery, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Grand Theft Auto, and Possession of Cocaine. Sims was charged with Possession of Cocaine and Driving with a Suspended License (2nd Offense).
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