Ocala, FL – The Ocala Police Department is contacting the public for assistance in identifying an individual connected to a theft and fraud case at the Oak Room Bar & Grill. The incident, reported on Thursday, December 7, 2023, involved the theft of a wallet containing an iPhone, multiple bank cards, ID cards, and approximately $500 in cash.
Deputy Hunter McMurray responded to the victim’s report, which detailed that after leaving her wallet at the restaurant, she received notifications of unsuccessful attempts to use the stolen cards. The stolen cards were reportedly used at Walmart for $546.48, Publix for $141.60, and two separate Lowe’s stores for $1,411.84.
Property Crimes Detective Nicholas Austin initiated an investigation in response to the incident. Surveillance footage obtained by Detective Austin captured the suspect using the victim’s stolen cards. Additionally, a photo of the suspect’s vehicle was obtained and is now circulated to the public for identification.
The Ocala Police Department urges anyone who recognizes the suspect or has information about the vehicle to contact them at (352) 732-9111.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to the Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 352-368-STOP (7867) or through www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. When providing tips to Crime Stoppers, reference case numbers 23-68. Individuals using Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest.
Detective Nicholas Austin oversees the case (23-25839) and emphasizes the significance of community cooperation in solving such crimes.
