Drone tracks down theft suspect hiding in sewer

Drone tracks down theft suspect hiding in sewer

A man accused of stealing from a store was found hiding in an unusual spot.

BRANDON, Fla. - A man accused of stealing from a store was found hiding in an unusual spot.

On July 4, just after 5:20 p.m., Hillsborough County deputies responded to a retail theft at Brandon Town Center Mall. 

Mall security believed the suspect ran into a wooded area.

Using a drone, the sheriff's office was able to provide live video to patrol units. The drone located the suspect emerging from a sewer grate, believing the coast was clear.

Deputies were guided to Ricardo Diaz, 55, and arrested him.

Diaz is facing the following charges:

• Wearing a hood or mask on the property of another
• Felony petit theft
• Resisting an officer without violence