Selfie-Snapping Theft Suspect Sought By Deputies

POLK COUNTY, FL — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office loves selfies. Its deputies love them even more if they happen to prove useful in solving an open case.

The agency believes it’s come across a few pictures that might enable it do just that in regard to a recent theft. The problem is, deputies aren’t sure who the man in the photos is just yet. That’s why the sheriff’s office is turning to Tampa Bay area residents for a little help.

It seems a Polk County resident was visiting the Solivita Stonegate Grille on March 6 when someone reached inside the victim’s golf bag and swiped a smartphone. Following the five-finger discount, the phone’s owner was able to access a few selfies online that were snapped by the alleged thief using the stolen phone.

As the sheriff’s office explained on Facebook, “We have a great photo; we just need a name to go with it.”

Anyone who recognizes the man in the photos is asked to call the sheriff’s office at 863-298-6200. Tips may also be submitted through Heartland Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-226-TIPS.

Photos courtesy of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office

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