TAMPA, FL – A suspected serial armed robber is now behind bars after being apprehended during his latest heist attempt, police say. The arrest marks the culmination of a month-long spree of violent crimes that left the community on edge.
Authorities were able to track down Sebastian Scott, 34, following a robbery at a store on 29th Street in East Tampa. The incident, captured on surveillance video, showed Scott entering the store with a gun already aimed at the clerk. The employee complied, handing over cash before retreating to a corner to call the police. Thanks to the clerk’s clear and detailed description of the suspect’s clothing, officers were able to identify and locate Scott swiftly.
Investigators revealed that this wasn’t Scott’s first encounter with the same store. In a brazen act, he had previously robbed the same clerk in August. Additionally, earlier this month, Scott allegedly stole a firearm from an unlocked vehicle and used it to rob a business on North 15th Street.
“Mr. Scott was desperate,” said a police spokesperson. “We can’t delve into his psyche, but his actions were dangerous, and he needed to be stopped.”
The following day, the brother of the initial victim was working at the same 29th Street store. He expressed relief that no one was injured during the robberies. “We are happy because these guys are arrested,” he said, highlighting the community’s sense of safety now that Scott is in custody.
Police officials also shared their relief over Scott’s apprehension. “We are so fortunate and very lucky that he did not use that gun. Anything could have happened, and we’re just glad our officers got him off the street before someone was seriously injured,” the spokesperson added.
Scott now faces multiple felony charges, and authorities are continuing their investigation into his criminal activities.