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Thieves Target Hollywood YMCA

HOLLYWOOD (CBSMiami) - Surveillance tapes may not be much help to Hollywood police as they try to track down the individuals who broke into a YMCA over the weekend and stole nearly a dozen flat screen TVs.

It happened sometime after the facility, at 3161 Taft Street, closed for the day at 5 p.m. on Sunday. The staff noticed they were missing when they were opening up on Monday morning.

"It's such a shame because this Y is part of our community," said Maryalicia Johnson, YMCA spokesperson.

The ten televisions were stolen from the workout room.

"I really noticed it because when I do my workout watching TV, the time went faster," said a woman working out.

In reviewing the security video, police said the burglars wore masks so it's going to be difficult to identify them.

Dorothy Saracino noticed the big screen televisions were missing when she started her morning workout on the treadmill Monday.

"I was aware when I walked in they weren't here. I miss them, so I have to watch them playing basketball," referring to the court that is separated from the workout room by a wall of glass.

Gene Shephard agrees.

"It's upsetting to me because it makes time go faster."

The greater Hollywood YMCA serves close to 15,000 people of all ages.

From childcare to swimming lessons and a haven for seniors, the nonprofit Hollywood Y relies on donations to survive.

While the facility remains open they have to figure out some way to make up for the financial loss.

They hope a generous benefactor will step forward. CBS4's Neighbors4Neighbors has offered to help coordinate donations for the organization.

If you have information on this break in give crimestoppers a call

(954) 493-TIPS.

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