Man accused of burglarizing tented homes in Hollywood

Police say Derek Bell stole more than $300,000 worth of jewelry, other items

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. ā€“ A Miramar man has been arrested after he burglarized several tented homes in Hollywood that were being fumigated, police said.

Derek Bell, 38, was arrested Sept. 18 on multiple charges, including burglary, theft and loitering and prowling.

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Hollywood police detectives said Bell targeted tented homes during the early morning hours, stealing more than $300,000 worth of other people's property.

Police said a search of Bell's Miramar home uncovered jewelry, sports memorabilia and other stolen property.

Twenty-three victims have come forward to claim their property, including three from Pembroke Pines, three from Miramar and one from Fort Lauderdale.

According to a police report, an officer conducting surveillance on a tented home spotted Bell canvassing a tented home on Lincoln Street. When Bell spotted the officer, he ran away, got into a parked car and sped off. Police followed Bell to his home, where officers took him into custody.

Police said Bell has a history of burglary and robbery arrests. He was on probation for driving with a suspended license and was wanted on two active warrants in Broward County.

Anyone who thinks he or she may have been a victim is asked to contact Hollywood police at 954-967-4636.


About the Author:

Peter Burke returned for a second stint of duty at Local 10 News in February 2014.