The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has made arrests following the burglary of multiple businesses.
On February 20, 2025, deputies responded to a Pinch A Penny at 16715 Fishhawk Boulevard in Lithia following a burglary. Deputies learned a suspect removed a pool heater from behind the business by cutting a locked fence. The store surveillance video showed a Nissan Pathfinder driving around the business.
On March 3, 2025, deputies responded to a Hungry Howies at 6517 Fishhawk Boulevard in Lithia regarding a theft. Deputies learned a refrigerator unit had been stolen, and surveillance video revealed that the same vehicle involved in the Pinch A Penny theft was near the restaurant during the burglary.
The same night as the Hungry Howies burglary, the Wayback Burgers restaurant in Fishhawk also experienced a burglary. The store's surveillance video showed two male suspects stacking aluminum chairs from the restaurant's patio area and carrying them over to their vehicle.
Through investigative means, detectives connected the string of burglaries to Matthew Pierson, 34, and Jonathan Gray, 33. The slab the Hungry Howie's refrigeration unit was on was located at Pierson's residence. Both suspects have been arrested and charged.
Pierson has been charged with:
- Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure
- Felony Petit Theft
- Trespass in Unoccupied Structure or Conveyance
- Criminal Mischief $200 or Less
- Grand Theft Third Degree ($750 - $5,000)
- Dealing in Stolen Property
- Criminal Mischief (More Than $200, Less Than $1,000)
- Grand Theft Third Degree ($5,000 - $10,000)
- Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure
- Out of County Warrant: Violation of Probation Felony Petit Theft
- Out of County Warrant: Probable Cause Violation of Probation Petit Theft/3rd Conviction
Gray has been charged with:
- Grand Theft Third Degree ($750 - $5,000)
- Dealing in Stolen Property
“If you target businesses in our community, know this, we will investigate, and you will be caught," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I am proud of the work of our dedicated detectives who work tirelessly to stop criminals in their tracks and hold them accountable."
This is an active investigation and any further information will come from the Public Affairs Office.
