Exclusive: Deputies Search For Gift-Grabbing Burglars
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- Aretha Washington and her niece Susie have a big job ahead of them, re-wrapping all the presents that were under the Christmas tree.
Three boys broke in and rummaged through all the packages, taking what they wanted, leaving the rest in a heap.
"They went through the gifts back under the tree," said Washington."They went through the gifts, so evidently it wasn't was they were looking for so they just threw them and left them there."
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"This is one of them that was wrapped up that they unwrapped," said her niece Susie McMillan while pointing to a toy truck. "The four boxes there, they unwrapped them and opened up but there was clothes in that box. I guess they didn't want any clothes so they left them there."
It happened Thursday morning, while Washington was home in her room. She had no idea anyone broke her back window and was creeping around her house. She found out after painters working at the house behind her saw them crawling out the window.
"He was able to tackle one of the guys and took the pillow case that had the tv inside. But the guy got away, there was three of them," said McMillan.
Inside, the three emptied drawers looking for items to steal. The one who lost the most was a 9-year old girl. In her room, they took a tablet and a game boy. Under the tree, she had presents from Project Angel Tree.
They grabbed the best ones, then ran off, apparently not understanding this is supposed to be the "season of giving" not taking.
"We can pray for them," said Washington with a smile on her face. "We can do that, pray that the Lord really touches their hearts."
She also said a little jail time could be helpful as well, to teach them not to steal.
If you have information about who may have done this, call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.
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