Serial Burglar Sought in 2 Counties

There’s a $1,000 reward out for the arrest of a burglar deputies in both Manatee and Hillsborough counties say has a taste for restaurants.

Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay has stepped in to offer a reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the man wanted in at least six recent burglaries.

The string of break-ins began July 31 in the late-night hours when four Manatee County businesses were broken into by a white male suspect. He struck the China Internet Café, Education Time, GiGi’s Cupcakes and Pablano’s Mexican Grill, according to an email from Crime Stoppers.

The man then turned his attention to Hillsborough County on Aug. 1 when he struck East Coast Pizza and Mi Casa restaurant, both in Riverview, the email said.

Based on surveillance photos, police have issued a description of the man. They say he’s between 45 and 55 years old and stands between 5 feet, 7 inches and 5 feet, 10 inches in height. He is about 180 pounds, has brown, balding hair, and wears glasses with a dark rim. He also has a tattoo on his left forearm. He was seen fleeing in a white GMC pickup.

Anyone who can identify the man is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.crimestopperstb.com.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Crime Stoppers