Hurricane Irma: Cops warn looters they're making 'fairly bad life choice'
(FOX News) -- Authorities in Florida warned residents that "going to prison over a pair of sneakers is a fairly bad life choice" following a series of burglary arrests as Hurricane Irma was slamming the state with heavy rains and winds.
Police in Fort Lauderdale said nine were arrested in connection to a sportswear store burglary. The group, which was filmed by a local news station, allegedly stole sneakers.
Police Chief Rick Maglione warned people in the statement that "Going to prison over a pair of sneakers is a fairly bad life choice" and residents should instead "Stay home and look after your loved ones and be thankful they are all safe."
The Miami-Dade Police Department also said on Twitter that there were 28 arrests for looting.
>> VIDEO: Miami police arrest looters during Hurricane Irma
Similar warnings were issued by other police departments across the state. "Any looters who come to Pembroke Pines will be greeted by our officers. Choose wisely and stay home," wrote the Pembroke Pines Police Department.
The Broward County Sheriff's Office, meanwhile, wrote: "ATTENTION LOOTERS; Every incident will be investigated. Evidence collected will be used to pursue charges after the fact."
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