Man arrested for burglary of five businesses

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Bradenton man, Leslie S. Guthrie, 53, described as a “prolific burglar” after he allegedly burglarized five businesses within a span of three days. According to a news release, Guthrie has been charged with five counts of burglary to an unoccupied structure, a third-degree felony.

Guthrie is accused of breaking into Judy’s Restaurant and American Lock and Key on the 9500 block of Cortez Road W. on Wednesday, stealing several hundred dollars. Other businesses targeted included Pub in a Tub at 8108 Cortez Road W. and Mez Comics and Games at 8208 Cortez Road W.

The sheriff’s office reported that the suspect entered through the front door of these businesses and tampered with the cash registers. Surveillance footage from the comic book store led detectives to identify Guthrie as the suspect. On Saturday, a task force tracked Guthrie to a plaza on the 2800 block of State Road 64 East, where he was allegedly scouting businesses. Shortly after 2 a.m., an alarm was triggered at a fifth business at 2852 State Road 64 East. Detectives observed damage at the scene, followed Guthrie to a nearby motel, and arrested him.

Evidence was collected from Guthrie’s vehicle and motel room, and video footage from the fifth business showed him wearing the same clothing as during his arrest. Additional charges are anticipated as Guthrie is suspected of committing other burglaries in Manatee County. The investigation remains ongoing.