Orange County man suspected in more than 40 burglaries arrested

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Deputies said they've arrested a man who is responsible for more than 40 business burglaries in Orange County.

Wesley Burruss, 43, was arrested Tuesday afternoon and charged with multiple counts of burglary and criminal mischief.

Investigators said Burruss targeted Latin and Chinese restaurants, as well as CVS pharmacies, across central Florida. In one case, Burruss allegedly broke into the Rice and Beans restaurant in east Orange County and left with the cash register.

"Whoever did this is professional and knows what they're doing," Restaurant manager Adonis Hernandez said.

A woman came forward after seeing surveillance video on the news and claimed she had been in Burruss' vehicle when he pulled off at least one burglary.

Investigators said Burruss usually used a yellow crowbar to break into the stores and restaurants.

Deputies said they recovered the crowbar from Burress.

One restaurant manager said the stolen money wasn't the big concern, it is the damage done during the burglary that proved costly.

"(The money taken) was very little. The damage to the store was much, much more, so it was more of a hassle for the owner than anything else," said Mellow Mushroom manager Cheri Votey.

Detectives said Burruss told them he pulled off the crimes because of a crack-cocaine habit that he now wants help with.

Burruss has a lengthy criminal history and is a registered sex offender, according to authorities. He was convicted of rape in Seminole County.

Burruss is appeared before a judge Wednesday morning. He is being held at the Orange County Jail without bail.

WFTV