HOUSTON – Houston Police Department investigators at first attributed more than 30 thefts and robberies to a single suspect who specialized in stealing from stores, pharmacies and fast food restaurants.
But, after close analysis of security video, there were actually two suspects, and one them is now behind bars, police said.
The two men look similar, and they used similar methods to take cash from at least 33 Houston businesses since Jan. 11.
Both men would make a small purchase, according to HPD robbery investigators, and when the clerk opened the register drawer, they would reach in and grab a handful of cash.
The man now in jail has been identified by police as 38-year-old Charles Lee Davis.
Davis never showed a weapon or threatened anyone, according to HPD investigators.
But they allege he hit more than 20 stores, pharmacies or fast food restaurants before he was arrested last week.
“A witness followed him. She actually recognized him from another store he hit and she followed him and contacted our dispatch,” said Officer Erick Westrup, who is leading the investigation.
The second suspect is still at large.
Solice still don’t know who he is, but they consider him dangerous.
Officers said he waves a gun and he’s been staying busy.
“Right now, we’re looking about 12 different ones, and we’re still counting,” Westrup said.
Police say the suspect always uses a different vehicle, and from the way he dresses, they think he may be a mechanic -- which would give him access to customer's cars.
So far there aren’t many leads, according to police.
Information may be reported by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477) or submitted online at www.crime-stoppers.org.
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