Smash-And-Grab Cash Thief Targeting Bank Customers: Authorities

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — Authorities in Hillsborough County have asked the public to help identify at least one person they say is targeting bank customers and stealing cash from their cars.

The first incident was reported in Tampa on Feb. 5. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, a victim went to a Bank of America branch around 1 p.m., withdrew cash and locked it away in his or her glove box before driving to his or her work in the 12000 block of Commodity Place.

An unknown person in a gray, newer model Ford Explorer followed the victim from the bank to his or her workplace, but left shortly after, authorities said. Around 3:30 p.m., a silver Toyota Camry showed up and parked near the victim's vehicle.

An hour later, the Ford Explorer returned just as the Camry left the parking lot. Then, a suspect from the Explorer got out of the car, smashed the victim's rear driver's side window, opened the glove box and stole the cash.

In what is believed to be a related incident the following day, a victim withdrew cash from a Chase Bank and placed it in the center console of his or her car before entering the Fresco y Mas store on Sheldon road.

While the victim was inside, a suspect broke the car's rear driver's side window and stole the money. Authorities said the suspect got out of a Ford Explorer that matched the same vehicle the day before.

Other similar incidents in the area could be connected as well, authorities said.

"Our detectives are working every lead to try and identify the people behind this criminal activity," county sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. "In the meantime, we are asking anyone who may have seen something suspicious, or believe they know who these suspects are, to please come forward. We are also warning anyone who is planning to visit a bank or an ATM, to please take precautions, be aware of their surroundings, and remove cash and all other valuables before leaving their cars."

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at (813) 247-8200.