Suspected Serial Robber Caught After Stealing Student's Chain
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- Authorities believe they have the guy responsible for a string of robberies in Miami-Dade County, that includes an attack on a teenage student right in front of his school.
Detectives with the City of Miami Police said they've arrested and charged Alfredo Garcia, 32, for armed robbery and other violent criminal activity. All while on a cocaine binge, authorities added.
Police said he snatched a teenager's chain in broad daylight.
"He's quite brazen. He threatened a child, a 13-year-old walking with some friends, with a gun. And he was able to get away with it," said Miami Police spokesperson Kenia Fallat.
But he wasn't on the run for long. The surveillance video hit the airwaves giving police the tip they needed.
Detectives pieced together Garcia's activity by following up on leads after the robbery spree began, they said.
"Lots of times when we put videos out is because we believe someone may recognize someone. In that 13-year-old, that's exactly what happen. Someone recognized that man. They called us with information and that's how we got the ball rolling," said Fallat.
CBS4 spoke with the 13-year-old and his friend seen in the video. Both are relieved.
"Now I can walk around safely. I guess I don't have to worry about him," said the victim.
The victim's friend said, "I feel good and I feel safe that I can walk around and not have to look back every time."
Garcia is no stranger to law enforcement.
His rap sheet dates back to 2001.
It includes burglary, battery, grand theft, cocaine possession and now five robberies.
"Detectives are certain that he also may be the suspect in other open cases that we have within our city," said Fallat.
These five locations are where Garcia's alleged crimes took place.
- 1705 NW 7 Street – Valero Gas Station
- 4777 W. Flagler Street – Stop and Shop
- 92 NW 42 Avenue – Subway
- 2188 NW 20 Street – Westar
- 604 NW 12 Ave – Sports Leadership and Management
Officials are asking other victims to come forward.
