The string of burglaries that unsettled Lithia, Florida, has come to an end with the arrest of two suspects. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced that a detailed investigation led to the capture of Matthew Pierson, 34, and Jonathan Gray, 33, both linked to multiple business thefts in the area.
The investigation began on February 20, when deputies responded to a burglary at Pinch A Penny, where surveillance cameras captured a Nissan Pathfinder acting suspiciously. Days later, Hungry Howie’s and Wayback Burgers also reported break-ins, with video evidence showing the same vehicle and two suspects stealing aluminum chairs.
Authorities later discovered a key piece of stolen property—a refrigeration unit slab from Hungry Howie’s—at Pierson’s residence, solidifying their connection to the crimes.
Charges Against the Suspects
Matthew Pierson: Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure, Felony Petit Theft, Dealing in Stolen Property, and other charges
Jonathan Gray: Grand Theft (Third Degree) and Dealing in Stolen Property
Their arrests bring relief to local business owners, as law enforcement continues to crack down on crimes that threaten the economic stability of the community.
