Multiple Charges Filed Against Hillsborough Burglary Suspect

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL —A multiple burglary suspect who targeted locally owned Hillsborough businesses in December was arrested Monday, according to deputies.

Joseph Williams, 39, is charged with burglary of an unoccupied structure, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said. Williams is accused of burglarizing the following businesses during a Dec. 19 crime spree:

• Taste of China, 8476 Sheldon Road, Town 'N' Country
• Keystone Cafe, 8741 Gunn Highway
• Bahama Bucks, 8527 Gunn Highway,
• New China, 17625 Gunn Highway
• Kang Gardens, 12221 W Linebaugh Avenue

Detectives said during each burglary, the suspect broke the front glass and tried to steal money from each register.

Authorities saw Williams a red Chevy Colorado seen on surveillance video at the scene of the business burglaries Monday. He was arrested on charges of burglary of an unoccupied structure and other drug-related charges, according to law enforcement officials.

Deputies said Williams could also be linked to similar business burglaries in Pasco and Hernando Counties.

This last year has been extremely difficult for local small businesses, and being burglarized by this individual only added insult to injury," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Through diligent detective work, we were able to locate Joseph Williams and take him off the streets, so that he can no longer target our hardworking citizens. We will continue working to ensure that justice is served."