Victim says suspect found his missing iPhone, then steals it back, takes his cash

SARASOTA COUNTY - An 18-year-old says he gave a ride to the man that found his missing iPhone, only to be robbed by that same man a few moments later, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

Christopher Buzas was putting gas in his car at the corner of Lockwood Ridge Road and Clark Road when he placed his iPhone on the roof his car about 11:45 Monday night.

He drove off and was heading to his Sarasota home when he realized what he had done and he turned around to search for his phone.

During his search for the lost I-phone, he met a 34-year-old man who authorities have identified as “Crazy Mike”.

The suspect had found his phone. Crazy Mike and Buzas negotiated a few dollars and a ride to the Sarasota/Bradenton Airport for the return of the phone, the report said.

However, at 26th Street and Bayshore Gardens, Buzas initially claimed that the  suspect pulled a small black gun from his right front pocket and pointed it at Buzas demanding his money. 

Buzas later recanted his story, saying there was no gun, but "Crazy Mike" demanded his money and personal belongings.

Buzas handed over his money and his iPhone.

The victim drove home after the incident and called 911.  

Because Buzas' phone was stolen, there was almost a 30-45 minute delay in the reporting of this crime.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the robbery.