SEBRING, FL — Highlands County Sheriff’s deputies are currently searching for a suspect who has become the subject of a bizarre string of vehicle burglaries. Authorities are asking for the public’s help to identify a person caught on surveillance footage targeting multiple cars in Sebring, all while carrying a distinctive accessory: a bright, oversized “Stewie Griffin” backpack.
The suspect, whose identity remains unknown, has reportedly targeted several vehicles in the area, leading to a wave of frustration among local residents. Investigators state that the individual was captured on doorbell cameras and security footage roaming through residential driveways late at night, methodically checking door handles to see if vehicles were left unlocked.
While the string of thefts has triggered a standard police investigation, the suspect’s choice of luggage has become the focal point of the case. The backpack, modeled after the iconic, football-headed character from the animated television series Family Guy, is highly recognizable and is now the primary clue deputies are using to track the perpetrator.
“It is not every day that a suspect provides such a unique identifying feature,” said a spokesperson for the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office. “While the individual was clearly attempting to conceal their identity with layers of clothing, the choice to carry a brightly colored, pop-culture-themed backpack has made them stick out on every camera we have reviewed.”
Detectives believe the suspect may be responsible for a series of thefts occurring over the past week, during which electronics, cash, and personal documents were taken from vehicles. Most of the burglaries occurred in the early morning hours, leading deputies to urge residents to remain vigilant.
The Sheriff’s Office is reminding citizens of the “9 p.m. Routine,” a community safety campaign that encourages residents to lock their vehicle doors, roll up windows, and remove all valuables from plain sight before going to bed.
“Our goal is to identify this individual as quickly as possible before more residents are victimized,” the Sheriff’s Office added in a statement released Wednesday morning. “If you see someone in your neighborhood acting suspiciously—or if you happen to spot someone walking around with that specific backpack—please contact us immediately. Do not attempt to engage with the individual.”
As of Wednesday afternoon, no arrests have been made. Investigators are currently canvassing the area for additional doorbell camera footage that may show the suspect fleeing the scene or entering a nearby vehicle.
Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspect or the location of the stolen items is encouraged to contact the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office at 863-402-7200. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS, where callers could be eligible for a cash reward.
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