Pinellas Sheriff Nabs Accused Seminole Burglar Caught On Video

SEMINOLE, FL – Pinellas County Sheriff’s detectives assigned to the Arson & Auto Theft Unit have arrested a 19-year-old Seminole man after a home was intentionally set on fire during a burglary in unincorporated Seminole.

The arson and burglary occurred at about 10:45 on Tuesday, April 17, at 8350 Flame Vine Ave.

Deputies and Seminole Fire Rescue were called to the home after receiving a report of a suspicious fire. Firefighters put out a small fire in the laundry room and concluded it was intentionally set.

The homeowner, 52 year-old Lance Klipper, has just returned home from work and discovered the fire and burglary.

The home appeared to be ransacked and the family dog Bailey was missing along with other valuables. Bailey was later found uninjured.

Detectives obtained surveillance video of a man knocking on the front door then walking to the rear of the home. Approximately an hour later, the man is seen on video walking down the driveway with suitcases and bags.

Detectives were able to identify him as Austin Lang. He was arrested Wednesday, April 18, near his home at 8428 Gerbera Avenue, Seminole, and admitted to the burglary and setting the fire.

Detectives recovered Klipper's stolen items inside Lang's home along with items from other burglaries committed in the area. Lang was charged with three counts of burglary, possession of a controlled substance and arson in the first degree.

Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of these burglaries is asked to contact Detective Larry McLean of the Arson & Auto Theft Unit, (727) 582-6399 or email McLean.

Images via Pinellas County Sheriff