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Caught on video: Thieves steal hundreds of dollars worth of mobile detailer's equipment in Tampa

Posted at 4:01 PM, Oct 04, 2019
and last updated 2019-10-05 17:04:26-04

TAMPA, Fla. — Before he could even drive, this Tampa man was cleaning and washing cars to earn his own money. Now he's looking for the people who stole hundreds of dollars worth of his equipment in broad daylight.

Nicklaus Brathwaite, with The White Glove Detailer, says his trailer of equipment was parked in a driveway off East Norfolk Street on Thursday when someone came and cut the straps holding a generator and power washer in place.

In a video, you can see someone run up and cut the hoses from a tank that holds the water, then they take off with the pressure washer in tow.

In another part of the video, Brathwaite describes how sneaky these people were as they scoped the house out first.

"In the beginning of the video, they walk up and knock on the door, and then they pretty much go right back into the truck to make sure nobody comes out."

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After no one answers the door, the guy in a faded navy hat, white tank top and what appears to be some type of work pants runs towards the trailer of equipment.

A spokesperson for the Tampa Police Department tells us they're investigating a theft at that address from Thursday.

Brathwaite says those power tools are his livelihood and without them he's unable to work. He tells us he started out with cars and motorcycles, and has worked his way up to detailing fleet service vehicles.

The Tampa man says he's losing out on hundreds of dollars a day until he's can buy new equipment.

"I plan to also check the pawn shops for them," said Brathwaite.

The thieves stole a Power Stroke 3100 PSI Gas Pressure Washer with electric start and a Champion power equipment 3500 W Dual-Fuel generator.

"I plan on being right back on my feet again," said Brathewaite.

Brathwaite is the first to admit his equipment could have been better secured. He says he’s in the process of getting a closed trailer for his work.

“Part of the accountability would be on me for not securing things down a little better, so it’s definitely a lesson," he said.

If you know who is in the video, or have any information on where the stolen items are you're asked to contact Tampa Police or Crimestoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS.

Or, Brathwaite asks for those responsible to return it, no questions asked.

Brathwaite has gotten several messages from people offering to donate equipment. He responded with this statement:

"Thank you for offering, I have been looking for a new engine to build a setup to build a separate trailer (which is getting dropped off tomorrow). I want these investigators to work as hard as possible looking for them but if they can’t retrieve my equipment I can come to you and exchange at least a wash and wax for the pressure washer. Thank you for supporting."

Brathwaite can be contacted at thewhiteglovedetailer@gmail.com.