The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested two brothers after they were caught on surveillance footage stealing the camera itself.
At approximately 8:40 p.m, on June 28, 2020, Stewart Wilkerson, 42, and his younger brother, Brian Wilkerson, 39, were captured on the victim's commercial horticulture property removing the surveillance camera, which was affixed to a telephone pole. The security camera is connected to the victim's cell phone, so they were immediately notified as the theft was taking place. Photographs of the two suspects were sent directly to the victim's phone. This helped in identifying the Wilkerson brothers quickly.
On July 2, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office received an anonymous tip that both brothers were staying in Lithia. Patrol deputies, aviation, K-9, and the Agricultural Crimes Unit all responded. Brian and Stewart Wilkerson were taken into custody.
"These two brothers and suspects have an extensive criminal history dating back 25 years," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This is a great example of our deputies and community working together to help get these two suspects off the streets. I want to commend our Agricultural Crimes Unit for taking a strong stance for our farmers and ranchers in Hillsborough County. This type of behavior will not be tolerated and these two will face the consequences for their foolish actions."
Brian Wilkerson was in possession of the camera and charged with Felony Petit Theft and Trespass on Commercial Horticultural Property. Stewart Wilkerson was also charged with Trespass on Commercial Horticultural Property. Stewart also has a fugitive warrant out of Alabama from the Houston County Sheriff's Office.