A tween who thwarted five teen burglars is being praised for his bravery by the Newton County Sheriff's Office.

The 12-year-old was home alone Monday afternoon at his Kirkland Road residence when there was a knock on the front door. When he peeked out, he saw five teens ranging in age from 14 to 16 at the door. He refused to answer the door and ignored the knocking.

He listened as the group went around the home and knocked on windows and doors. When he gave no indication that he was there, he heard the back window break as the teens began breaking into his home.

According to Lt. Keith Crum, the tween immediately called 911 and authorities arrived before the group was able to gain entry. When the teens were arrested, authorities found burglary tools including gloves, backpacks, rocks and hairpins. Deputies also found marijuana (less than an ounce) on four of the five teens.

After being identified by the 12-year-old, the teens were arrested and charged with criminal attempt to commit burglary. Four were also charged with possession of marijuana less than an ounce, and two were also charged with possession of a tool during the commission of a crime.

"They came prepared to commit a burglary," said Crum. "They came prepared with items to force entry and gloves to conceal their identity. The only thing that kept it from being successful was the young man calling 911.

"We appreciate him calling. His immediate actions led directly to the subjects being apprehended. Without him, and people like him who are willing to step forward and call law enforcement in a timely manner, we wouldn't be able to solve these crimes."