MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A man was arrested in connection with an armed home invasion at a Miami Airbnb that police said resulted in the theft of $12,000 and other valuables earlier this year.
Authorities said Miami police responded to an armed robbery call at a home near the 400 block of Northeast 23rd Street at approximately 4:45 p.m. on Jan. 9.
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Investigators said two of the victims, who currently reside in Orlando, had rented the Airbnb for a dental procedure.
Police said one of the victims had been in communication with a friend who wanted to visit. The friend arrived at a dental office on Jan. 9 and accompanied the victims back to their Airbnb.
The victim reported that his friend, after texting on his phone and excusing himself to use the restroom, opened the door to two armed suspects claiming to be DoorDash food delivery drivers.
The suspects, who were armed with handguns, told the victim, “Give me the sack!” and then pistol-whipped him before stealing approximately $12,000, cellphones and other belongings inside the home, according to the report.
Police said surveillance video showed the suspects entering the building and fleeing in a black Jeep Compass.
According to detectives, investigative efforts led to the identification of one of those suspects as 24-year-old Romello Raheem Smith, whose phone was found at the scene.
Search warrants linked Smith to the phone and revealed incriminating evidence, including photos of Smith with guns and money. police said.
Jail records show Smith is facing one count of home invasion robbery with a firearm.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing as they work to apprehend the other suspect or suspects involved.
Anyone with information is urged to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.