The owner of a restaurant in Miami caught a thief inside his establishment and bravely confronted him. The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Thursday at El Jardín Latino, located at 32nd Street and 17th Avenue in Northwest Miami. The business owners were sleeping when they were awakened by the alert from their surveillance cameras indicating the presence of intruders. The man called 911 and immediately went to the location to prevent the criminal from getting away. Thanks to his determination, he managed to capture the thief.
The video, released by América TeVe, shows the thief with a bandana covering his face, rummaging through the cash register, grabbing items, and putting them into his backpack. Later, he is seen raising his hands when the owner approaches with a stick in hand. The criminal walked backward while the owner and a friend who joined in cornered him. After a struggle, the two managed to subdue him. The police arrived minutes later and arrested him.
The thief was identified as Sergio Morales, 40 years old. The videos confirmed that he spent several minutes searching the entire restaurant before being discovered. Silvia Batista, the owner's wife, recognized him as the same man who broke in and stole about $2,000 worth of beer, meat, and other products last December. Mike Vega, a spokesperson for the Miami Police, explained that Morales seemed to be under the influence of some narcotic.
"During the struggle, he suffered several injuries, so he was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then taken to jail. He is now facing charges of robbery and other pending charges," Vega detailed. Morales faces two counts of assault, one count of robbery of an establishment, and another of theft of tools and possession.
At El Jardín Latino, he only took $14 from the cash register, an electronic cigarette, and seven lighters.
Details Surrounding the Miami Restaurant Theft Incident
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the recent incident at El Jardín Latino in Miami.
What time did the incident at El Jardín Latino occur?
The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Thursday.
How did the restaurant owner discover the thief?
The restaurant owner was alerted by the surveillance cameras indicating the presence of intruders.
What items did the thief manage to steal?
The thief took $14 from the cash register, an electronic cigarette, and seven lighters.
Where was the thief taken after being arrested?
The thief was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries and then transported to jail.