Man wanted in fast-food restaurant burglaries

HOUSTON – Police need help identifying and finding a man who has been stealing cash from fast-food restaurants in Houston's east end.

Houston police said the man broke into a Popeyes in the 6900 block of Harrisburg about 4:40 a.m. on July 29 and a Hartz Chicken Buffet in the 6500 block of Harrisburg about 11 p.m. on July 30. He uses a rock to shatter windows to get inside, detectives said.

Investigators said they have surveillance video from the break-ins.

"We haven't seen him stealing any tangible items he can sell," Sgt. Eddie Ewing said. "He's always looking for the cash. He's in and he's out."

People who work at the restaurants said they're frightened.

"We don't feel safe around here at all," said Sodany Tup, a manager at Hartz Chicken Buffet. "My recommendation is to strengthen patrols."

The man is also suspected in three burglaries at a doughnut shop, police said.

The thief may be a former employee of one or more the restaurants, investigators said. Police said they also believe he may live in the area.

"We haven't seen a vehicle at all," Ewing said. "Everything seems to be on foot."

Detectives said they want to catch the man, who doesn't wear any sort of disguise, soon because they're afraid he'll begin breaking into homes.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

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