Most shoppers ask cashiers how much the merchandise costs before buying it, but Broward Sheriff’s detectives are looking for a man who asked what cashiers would do if he walked out of the store without paying, and then he did just that.
The shoplifter walked into ABC Fine Wine and Spirits 3355 N. Federal Highway in Oakland Park about 8:30 p.m. Feb. 12, investigators said.
Surveillance video shows him picking up a cooler bag and filling it with two bottles of whiskey, two bottles of tequila and a bottle of vodka before going to the check out counter.
He asked two employees at the cash register what would happen if he decided to walk out without paying. They explained they would call the police. So, he started heading for the door, the video showed.
One employee struggled with thief, trying to prevent him from leaving but fell to the floor and the thief ran off with the merchandise, investigators said.
Detectives released the surveillance video, Friday, with the hope someone will recognize and report the strong-arm robber.
The video showed man to be in his mid-30s, with a medium build, short black hair, wearing a white cap, a tan polo shirt, dark pants, glasses and tan athletic shoes.
Investigators are asking anyone who can identify him to contact Detective Robert Sokol at 954-321-4547.
Anonymous tips can be sent to Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477 or online at browardcrimestoppers.org. Tips that lead to an arrest are eligible for a reward of up to $3,000.
wkroustan@sunsentinel.com or 954-356-4303 or Twitter @WayneRoustan
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