HALLANDALE BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - Two crooks who stole an unattended purse at a South Florida club used the keys inside it to break into a home and left with their hands full, police said.
According to Hallandale Beach Police, the 42-year-old victim was out dancing with friends at the Spice Lounge in Hollywood late last month when, she said, she left her purse on the table for a second.
The victim, who identified herself as Luba, spoke to 7News over the phone on Tuesday.
“I left the clutch on the table and went to dance, but at about 11 p.m., the clutch has disappeared,” said Luba.
The victim’s purse was gone, along with her wallet, keys, credit cards and ID, which had her address of the condominium where she lives with two other women.
Investigators said a pair of sneaky burglars took their opportunity to steal the bag and gain access to the unit, located along Northeast 14th Avenue and Seventh Street, on April 28, at around 12:30 a.m.
“Took the purse, were able to identify where the address was to where she lived, keys were inside, they go there, and they violate three victims out having a good time,” said Hallandale Beach Police Sgt. Pedro Abut.
Surveillance video at the complex recorded the couple, as the female burglar got on the elevator to go to the second floor. Minutes later, her male accomplice also could be seen getting on the elevator.
“Based on the timeline, it looks like upon stealing the purse, discovering where they needed to go, they went there, they committed the burglary and they departed pretty quickly,” said Abut.
Officials said the victim went home when she couldn’t find her purse, but they said it wasn’t enough.
“Once she realized her purse was missing, she immediately — they went home and immediately notified the police,” Abut said.
The president of the association at the apartment complex said it took the duo just eight minutes to leave and the homeowner to return.
Luba said the duo ransacked the apartment.
“The man took the TV, and the woman took my bag and all our laptops,” she said.
Investigators said the burglars also stole jewelry, additional purses and $1,800 in cash.
“I thought this was a safe place,” said Luba.
“We were afraid, and we were even afraid to stay at home after that,” said one of Luba’s friends, who asked not to be identified or show her face on camera.
Now these women are hoping someone will know who these crooks are and call police before they do it again to someone else.
“Anybody with information who can assist in identifying the suspects in the video, please notify the police department,” Abut said. “We want to solve this case, and we want to end their party the way they ended our victim’s party.”
When asked whether the purse snatching and break-in made her angry, Luba’s friend replied, “Well, not angry, but disappointed, actually, very disappointed.”
If you have any information on these burglars’ whereabouts, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $3,000 reward.
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