SEBASTIAN — Police credited the help of the press, social media and an unknown tipster that led to the arrest of a man who stole four bottles of Hennessy Cognac and threatened to shoot a Publix store clerk, officials said.
Miguel Renan Garcia-Rosario, 31, of Vero Lake Estates, was charged with robbery, theft and aggravated assault. His mugshot was not available.
Police got an anonymous tip from someone who recognized Garcia-Rosario from the broadcasts on Tuesday.
Police Chief Michelle Morris said officers were able to locate the man in north Indian River County. He was under surveillance until the Special Response Team was able to capture him about 6:30 p.m. Wednesday during a traffic stop.
“The patrol shift did an excellent job of capturing the information during their initial investigation,” Morris said. “Quick work by our detectives and crime analyst following the tip resulted in a positive identification.”
Detective Todd Finnegan said the big break for officers was having great video from the store.
“He shaved his head and beard completely trying to change his appearance and even burned the clothes,” Finnegan said. “He was sure we were looking for him. He was right!”
Garcia was arrested and taken to the county jail for booking.
Photos provided by Sebastian Police Department
