*Updated to add the video from the security camera.

MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – UPDATED, 1/19/2024: At 352today’s request, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has released the video captured by the security camera. In it you can see the thief is on a bicycle which may aid in identifying the suspect.

Take a look at the video. If you can help deputies identify this man, you’re asked to call 352-732-9111.

This post on MCSO’s Facebook page has garnered nearly 100 comments as of this publication, many commenting on the thief’s gaff that gives authorities evidence to not only identify but use in prosecuting the case.

One Facebook follower commented calling him “the latest Darwin award winner.”

Another compared him to the dopey fictional movie character Ernest and referenced the movie, “Ernest Goes to Jail.”

ORIGINAL, 1/18/2024: The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is asking for your help identifying a man they say was caught on camera stealing a security camera.

The sheriff’s office says they are looking for the man pictured who they say went to a home under construction in the 6900 block of Southwest 149th Lane Road and stole a security camera valued at $355.

They say the construction company told them that they purchased the camera to provide surveillance of the property. MCSO says while reviewing the footage, the construction company discovered the caught the thief in the act.

“While reviewing the footage, they discovered that this thief had stolen the camera and filmed himself taking it,” said MCSO in a Facebook post. “It’s very unfortunate that he stole the camera, but it certainly did its job. Now, we need your help to let us know who he is.”

They are asking with any information regarding his identity to call 352-732-9111.

|TRENDING: Increased law enforcement at multiple Marion County Public Schools due to anonymous threat

If you’d like to remain anonymous, you can call Marion County Crime Stoppers at 352-368-7867. You can also submit a tip online here. Reference 24-03 in your tip. If it leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a cash reward.