FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Fort Lauderdale police arrested nine people caught by Local 10 News cameras looting Fort Lauderdale business despite the dangerous winds and heavy rain from Hurricane Irma.
Local 10 cameras showed a group breaking into the Simon's Sportswear at Sunrise Boulevard and Powerline Road.
The group of looters broke through the front window and were seen walking in and then walking out with stolen items.
They then began looting a Foot Locker and Cash America Pawn store in the same area.
Hours later, the Fort Lauderdale Police Department announced that the criminals had been arrested.
"Going to prison over a pair of sneakers is a fairly bad life choice," Fort Lauderdale police Chief Rick Maglione said. "Stay home and look after your loved once and be thankful they are all safe."
Six adults and three teenagers were arrested. The adult suspects were identified as Kenneth Pinkney, Zara Dumornay, Tyrell Pratt, Teonhki Robinson, Michael Brown and Rossano Henry Jr.
They face charges of burglary during a natural disaster.
The Broward Sheriff's Office immediately reacted to Local 10's report, posting on Twitter: "ATTENTION LOOTERS; Every incident will be investigated. Evidence collected will be used to pursue charges after the fact."
Meanwhile, the Pembroke Pines Police Department issued a stern warning: "Any looters who come to Pembroke Pines will be greeted by our officers. Choose wisely and stay home."
South Florida law enforcement officials promised to police the streets to prevent looting, but with unsafe winds pummeling the region, police were discretionary to ensure the safety of officers.
Any looters who come to Pembroke Pines will be greeted by our officers. Choose wisely and stay home. https://t.co/9ETgZKgYla
— Pembroke Pines PD (@PPinesPD) September 10, 2017
ATTENTION LOOTERS; Every incident will be investigated. Evidence collected will be used to pursue charges after the fact. #HurrcaneIrma
— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) September 10, 2017