***UPDATE***
The suspect reached out to the detective and confessed to taking the phone. He has been identified as 29-year old Allen Howell. He claimed that he took the phone home waiting for the owner to use the "Find My Phone" function, but that didn't happen." He said that he then forgot he still had the phone. He could not explain why he didn't turn the phone over to store management or law enforcement. Allen Howell was charged with Grand Theft and the phone was returned to the victim.

CRIME: CELL PHONE THEFT
CRIME SCENE: HILLTOP FOOD MART, 615 DAUGHTERY RD, LAKELAND 
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE CASE #23-39219

On September 24th at around 6:00pm, a man accidentally left his cell phone on the counter while paying for his purchase at the Hilltop Food Mart in Lakeland.

The phone was soon picked up by another man and taken. The Polk County Sheriff's Office is now trying to get this man identified. 

As you can see in THIS VIDEO, the suspect's right arm is covered with tattoos, and his left forearm also appears tattooed.

If anyone has information regarding this crime they are urged to contact Detective Peffer at 863-577-1600, or at JPeffer@polksheriff.org.

If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers in one of four ways:
• CALL 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
• DIAL **TIPS from your cell phone
• VISIT www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on "Submit A Tip,"
• DOWNLOAD the free "P3tips" app on your smartphone or tablet.
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