Sheriff Warns Residents To Watch Out For Cash Snatcher

NORTH TAMPA, FL -- Hillsborough County Sheriff's deputies are searching for a man who has been snatching cash from people in North Tampa over the past month.

Just before 8 p.m. on Feb. 15, a resident was preparing to wire transfer $1,000 to his family in the Honduras. As he was handing the money over to the cashier at La Mexicana Market, 2002 E. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa, a man snatched the cash out of his hands and ran.

A similar incident occurred March 2. A resident had just cashed his paycheck inside the Citgo convenience store at 2030 E. Fletcher Ave. He left the store and began walking north on 22nd Street. Just as he approached Bearss Avenue, the robber tried to grab the money out of his hand.

A scuffle ensued and the robber drew a knife, threatening the victim until he gave him the cash.

The incident was spotted by a deputy who attempted to intervene, but the thief took off, paying an unsuspecting driver to give him a ride from the scene.

He is described as black, approximately 20-30 years old, 165-185 pounds with short hair. He was last seen wearing blue pants, a black shirt and white shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200.

(For more local news from Florida, click here to sign up for real-time news alerts and newsletters from Patch. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here.)