BRADENTON, FL – Detectives say two victims of car thefts made up a story about how they were robbed in their separate homes and not only did they lose cash but their vehicles too.
About 5-8 suspects supposedly knocked on the door of one victim’s home and demanded money and stole his Cadillac Escalade.
The other victim also claimed he lost cash and his Chevy Blazer to 5-8 men. Upon further investigation, detectives learned the victims had visited a home on 12th Street East known for prostitution.
Detectives say it was there that the group of men stole the victims’ cash and vehicles. The victims were tied up with their own shoelaces and placed in one rooms at the 12th Street house. Once inside the room, four other victims were also tied up apparently victims of the same type of robbery.
Two of the victims managed to break free and call for help. Two inside the 12th Street home were detained but so far no one arrested.
Both victims’ vehicles were recovered blocks away.
Manatee County Sheriff’s Office believes others have fallen victim to the crimes and are hoping they will come forward.
