Florida Towman Accused of Stealing $3,900 in Valuables From Towed Vehicle

A Port Richey tow truck driver was arrested after allegedly stealing nearly $3,900 in valuables from a vehicle transported to a tow yard following a crash.

According to a Port Richey Police Department arrest affidavit, the vehicle's owner discovered several items missing when she returned to collect her belongings from Pasco Towing's yard the day after the accident.

Surveillance footage reportedly showed a man entering the vehicle with a flashlight, searching the interior and leaving with a small handbag.

Investigators identified the suspect as Frank Savier Ortiz, 34, an employee of Pasco Towing. After being advised of his Miranda rights, Ortiz allegedly admitted taking the bag, telling officers he needed money for rent and believed it contained valuables.

Police said Ortiz acknowledged possessing several stolen items, including $150 AirPods and a $250 Marc Jacobs wallet. He also reportedly told investigators that a $500 Louis Vuitton coin purse containing a $3,000 Cartier bracelet was at his home.

The reported value of the missing property totaled approximately $3,900.

Ortiz was arrested Tuesday on charges of vehicle burglary and grand theft. The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Sources: https://www.pasconewsonline.com