ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — An teenager living in Windermere's most exclusive community is facing charges that he trashed a $5 million Isleworth mansion during a wild party he threw.
Deputies said Charles Harding broke into the mansion Tuesday night and hosted a party that caused $25,000 worth of damage.
Skywitness 9 HD flew over and saw beer bottles and cans on tables outside the vacant home, which is up for sale, on Deacon Circle.
Residents questioned how the partygoers were able to get in the gated community with a guard. But since the 19-year-old already lives inside Isleworth with his parents, he was able to leave what's called an open list at the guard gate. All the partygoers had to do was give Harding's name and they were let on through.
"It's bad. That's pretty bad. I can't make any excuses for this kid," said Isleworth resident Denika Williams.
According to the arrest report, the walls of the home have holes punched in them, with beer bottles inside the drywall.
The furniture was also ruined with alcoholic drinks and beer pong. And the report states no one was over 21.
"I'd be upset, of course, but I don't think security did their job," said resident Marcela Zito.
"Is anyone going to tell us how they let this party go on for a couple hours at a home that was supposed to be vacant? Or how they let all these kids in?" asked WFTV's Renee Stoll.
“Ma'am it's an ongoing investigation. I can't comment,” replied a security guard who was unidentified.
According to the report, Harding had planned the party for at least two days.
He got busted when Isleworth security called the sheriff's office.
When the homeowner came to the house she found $25,000 in damage.
Harding's father, a doctor, offered to pay for the damage if his son didn't face any charges.
"The lesson the parents are teaching their kids is we allow them to do anything," said Zito.
Harding told deputies the home was unlocked and he only planned to have five to 10 people over, but it got out of hand.
He is facing felony charges of burglary and criminal mischief.
The homeowner, who also lives in the neighborhood, didn't return a call from WFTV.
WFTV
