Police ID Suspect Wanted In Dozens Of Smash-And-Grab Crimes
By Jenn Bernstein
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia police have issued an arrest warrant for a man wanted in a string of burglaries that have plagued two dozen city businesses.
Authorities say his crime spree may stretch into Delaware County.
Police are looking for 49-year-old Devon Powell who they say is seen in several surveillance videos throwing a brick through glass, entering targeted businesses and trying to grab registers. Powell is believed to be homeless and possibly a substance abuser.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey was straight and to the point when asked about the suspect. "He's a thief, thieves belong in jail."
Police say he's responsible for smash and grab burglaries at spots like 19 Degrees Cafe on Christian Street, Hawthornes Cafe on South 11th Street, and Fiesta Pizza Restaurant on Chester Avenue, among as many as 25 other businesses.
"Someone will recognize him, and maybe some of our Center City officers have had contact with him in the past," said Commissioner Charles Ramsey.
Philadelphia Police aren't the only ones looking for Powell.
We are told there is also a warrant out for his arrest for burglarizing businesses in Yeadon, Delaware County.
Authorities say he is known to operate a dark mountain bike.
If you've seen Powell, police are asking people to call the department.
