Authorities hunt gunman in pharmacy robberies
[Images courtesy CrimeStoppers Tampa Bay]
Authorities believe the same person is responsible for a string of armed robberies in which a gunman steals prescription drugs from local pharmacies.
Now, Pinellas and Hillsborough law enforcement officials are asking for the public’s help in finding him. And they’re offering a reward for anyone giving good information leading to his identification and arrest.
The armed robberies, which authorities say began on July 3 and have continued as recently as Thursday, include thefts of OxyContin from the following stores:
- July 3 - Publix Pharmacy, 12139 Linebaugh Ave, Tampa.
- July 15 - St. George’s Pharmacy, 31201 U.S. 19 N, Palm Harbor.
- Aug. 13 - Publix Pharmacy, 8975 Racetrack Road, Tampa.
- Aug. 18 - Sweetbay Pharmacy, 13016 Racetrack Road, Tampa.
- Aug. 28 - Armenia Pharmacy, 8338 N Armenia Avenue #B.
The suspect in all five robberies is described as a white man in his early to mid 30s, between 5 feet 8 and 5 feet 10 and about 200 to 250 pounds. He has short dark hair, but authorities say he has worn a blond wig in the past two robberies. He is armed with a black and silver semiautomatic handgun.
Investigators say he might me driving a silver or silver-blue 2007 or 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to call CrimeStoppers Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-8477. Tipsters may also report anonymously online at www.crimestopperstb.com or submit an anonymous text message tip to C-R-I-M-E-S (274637), keyword "Tip155" and the message.
Casey Cora, Times staff writer