CST detectives analyzed crime trends involving cases where victims were followed from financial institutions and were subsequently robbed or had their vehicles burglarized.  Utilizing this data, detectives initiated a coordinated effort to proactively address these criminal acts.  A surveillance was established in the parking lot of the Wells Fargo Bank, located at N.W. 186 Street and N.W. 67 Avenue, and five subjects were observed loitering in and around a silver Nissan Altima.  Moments later, the subjects exited the shopping center in the Nissan, and drove in a manner to determine if law enforcement was following them. Detectives were successful in following the Nissan to the Wal-Mart, located at on N.W. 5851 N.W. 177 Street, where they circled the parking lot for several minutes.  The five subjects entered the Wal-Mart and made their way to the electronics department. With the cooperation of Wal-Mart loss prevention personnel, detectives were able to observe the subjects stealing several video games, concealing them inside a backpack.  The five subjects exited the store without paying for the merchandise and were met by detectives as they approached their vehicle.

As a result of this investigation, six vehicle burglaries were solved.  Additionally, a search of the Nissan revealed a stolen Glock handgun, a black mask (skull shaped), a flash light, and suspect marijuana.

The Miami-Dade Police Department takes pride in the continued efforts to ensure the safety of our community.