Burglar Sprays New Tampa Homeowner With Mace, Steals Purse

NEW TAMPA, FL -- Tampa Police officers arrested a burglar who sprayed mace on a woman during a confrontation at her New Tampa home. After a brief search, 33-year-old Matthew Begelman is now in police custody.

The incident took place at 20114 Indian Rosewood Drive shortly after 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 19. The female homeowner and her son came home and confronted the burglar who was still inside of their condo. The burglar, later identified as Begelman, sprayed the female homeowner with mace as they struggled over her purse.

Neighbors saw the confrontation taking place and stepped in to help the victim. Begelman was able to get away on foot with the purse along with jewelry he stole before the residents came home.

Patrol officers, Air Service, K9 teams and plainclothes officers responded to the scene. Hillsborough County Sheriff's deputies assisted with setting up a perimeter.

Officers were able to locate Begelman in a wooded area close to where the burglary took place. Charges are pending.

Image via Tampa Police