Police release video of home intruder

SUNNY ISLES BEACH, Fla. (WSVN) -- Police have released video of a man believed to have committed several home-invasion robberies in Sunny Isles Beach.

According to Sunny Isles Beach Police, the thief targeted three homes in the past two and a half weeks. In some cases, he broke in while people were inside the houses.

On Tuesday, police released surveillance footage of the suspected intruder walking outside one home. On the video, he walks behind a sport utility vehicle parked in the front yard of the home before creeping into the backyard and trying the back door. According to police, he failed to get inside one home, but in another home he was able to get in.

All incidents happened in the late night or overnight hours while people were sleeping. "In two of the cases, they woke up in the middle of the night to find their property missing," said Sunny Isles Beach Police Sgt. Brian Schnell, "and called us, and the person's gone [along with] watches, cash, laptops, computers, credit cards. Right now, we're working some leads in that area."

Isaac Sifdie was one of those victimized as he slept. "My money was in the table," he said pointing to his night stand, "$750, my watch. He took my wallet also, all my credit cards, everything, my driver's license ... I sleep here," he said, turning around and pointing to his bed. "I sleep here."

Larissa Nechayeva was also victimized and said she found unmistakable signs that someone had been inside her home while she slept. She said she found her sliding glass door to her backyard open and her purse in the backyard. "Everything open," she said about her doors, "no credit card, no money, everything empty. I was shocked. I was screaming."

She said she later learned that one of her cards was later used in Liberty City, after the bank called her to investigate some suspicious charges.

Police are asking residents who notice anyone acting suspiciously in Sunny Isles Beach to call police immediately.

Police are hoping someone might recognize this man in the video. If you do, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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