PINECREST, FLA. (WSVN) - A Miami man is behind bars after being accused of pretending to be a police officer.
Police arrested 32-year-old Gil Larry in Pinecrest, Thursday, after an anonymous tip was made to Coral Gables Police.
Officers said he’s the man who was caught on surveillance video back on July 3rd. Police said he told a woman to lean against a parked car so he could forcefully pat her down. Then, he robbed her and exposed himself to her.
According to Coral Gables Police, the victim was walking along the 4000 block of Aurora Street, just off Bird Road and two blocks from the upscale Shops at Merrick Park when the subject approached just before 5:15 a.m.
Investigators said the subject proceeded to take advantage of the situation by identifying himself as a police officer. “He patted down that female, and while doing so, he exposed his genitals and deprived her of her property,” said Coral Gables Police Officer Lauren Poole.
Police said the subject, wearing mostly black and carrying a two-tone backpack, forcibly took the victim’s valuables. At first, the woman did not run because the man threatened her, warning her that he had a gun.
Moments later, the woman made the brave decision to take off running southbound on Aurora Street. The man then fled the scene on the opposite direction on a longboard skateboard.
Larry was charged with count of strong armed robbery, impersonating a police officer, indecent exposure and battery.
“I want to thank the community for giving us this tip that ultimately led to the apprehension of this person. This shows how a community can make a difference when they partner with police,” Coral Gables Police Chief Edward Hudak said.
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