Bloomingdale Barefoot Burglar Apprehended By Sheriff's Deputies

A 19-year-old man with no known address has admitted to committing 100 burglaries in Bloomingdale East and attempting another 500 burglaries in the neighborhood.

At about 3 p.m. today, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested Morgan Ray Deblock and charged him with seven counts of burglary of an unoccupied vehicle, one count of grand theft auto, possession of burglary tools and six counts of petit theft.

According to a sheriff's report, deputies were on routine patrol when they spotted Deblock wearing no shoes and pushing a motorized scooter along Natures Way and Springvale Drive in Bloomingdale East.

Thinking this was suspicious, the deputies stopped and questioned Deblock about his activity and if he owned the scooter. Deblock told deputies he just stole the scooter parked in a residential driveway around the corner.

During questioning, Deblock readily admitted that, during the last month, he committed at least 100 auto burglaries and at least 500 attempted burglaries in Bloomingdale East.

Deblock stated it was very easy to get into cars because one out of five vehicles he checked were left unlocked. Deblock said he never broke a window or used force to gain entry into the cars. 

Deblock was taken to the Hillsborough County Jail.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office suggest these simple steps to prevent auto burglary:

• Close your windows and lock your doors.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view in your car; lock them in your trunk.
• Park your car where it will be frequently and easily seen.
• When possible, park in well-lit areas.
• Never leave your car unattended while the engine is running, even for a minute.
• If possible, park in a garage with the door secured.

The most common items stolen are briefcases, garage door openers, laptop computers, tools, cash, keys, mail, purses, stereos and tools.