Deputy looks for help identifying purse theft suspect

Update on this investigation: Detectives in Marathon have closed the investigation into an alleged purse theft at Subway Restaurant in Marathon. Upon further review of the case, they say it is not possible to determine whether or not money was actually taken from the purse. At this point, unless further information is uncovered regarding the incident, there will be no charges in connection with this case.

Sheriff’s Deputy James Pettorini is looking for help identifying a man who stole a girl’s purse from the Subway Restaurant in Marathon.

A 15 year old girl was eating at the restaurant and accidentally left the purse there on March 17^th just before 3 p.m. When she returned, it was gone. The man who stole it later turned it in to BB&T bank. Everything was in the purse except $80 in cash.

Video footage from Subway shows the man who appears to be a white male in his 40s, medium height and build with dark blonde or light brown hair. He is wearing a lime green shirt with a blue logo on it and blue jeans. In the video, he picks up the purse and hides it with his belongings before leaving the restaurant.

Anyone with information about this crime should contact Deputy Pettorini at 305-289-2430. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers of the Florida Keys. If a Crimestoppers tip leads to an arrest, the caller would be eligible for a cash reward. The Crimestoppers hot line number is 1-800-346-TIPS. Tips may be made anonymously on line at www.tipsubmit.com.