The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said Melik Khayitov, 18, of Lakeland was caught on camera while breaking into the McDonald’s on CR 540-A at 1:10 a.m.
Khayitov allegedly stole all of the money inside the restaurant’s safe before driving off, according to deputies.
The sheriff’s office said the 18-year-old’s former coworkers identified him as the suspect. He is wanted for charges of grand theft, burglary, and possession of burglary tools.
Khayitov is described as being 5 feet, 9 inches tall, weighing 145 pounds, and having black hair and brown eyes. Deputies said he drives a “green 2002 Honda Accord with GA tag TCX 7181.”
If you know where he is, call Detective Haynes at 863-499-2400 and reference case number 22-25782.
Anonymous tips can also be made by calling Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida at 1-800-226 TIPS (8477), dialing **TIPS from your cell phone, visiting the Crime Stoppers website , or using the P3tips app.