Leslie S. Guthrie : “Manatee County Serial Burglar Arrested – Caught on Camera!”

BRADENTON, Fla. –

A 53-year-old Bradenton resident has been taken into custody by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for his involvement in a string of burglaries along Cortez Road and State Road 64 East. The suspect, identified as Leslie S. Guthrie, is accused of burglarizing five businesses over a three-day period.

Authorities launched an investigation into a series of burglaries after an unidentified individual stole a significant amount of money from Judy’s Restaurant and American Lock and Key located in the 9500 block of Cortez Rd W. Subsequent break-ins were reported at Pup in a Tub and Mez Comics and Games in the same vicinity.

Courtesy: Manatee County Sheriff’s Office

Surveillance footage from the Mez Comics and Games break-in captured Guthrie inside the store, leading to his identification as the primary suspect in the case. Deputies located Guthrie in a plaza on SR 64 E, where he was observed casing businesses in the area.

Following an alarm at a business on SR 64 E, deputies apprehended Guthrie at a nearby motel without any resistance. Upon searching his car and motel room, authorities discovered incriminating evidence linking him to the burglaries.

Courtesy: Manatee County Sheriff’s Office

Guthrie has been charged with five counts of burglary to an unoccupied structure, with additional charges expected as the investigation progresses. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office suspects him of being involved in other burglaries in the area.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to gather more evidence and identify any potential accomplices. Stay updated with the latest news by signing up for the FOX 13 daily newsletter.