Police have arrested an alleged serial golf course thief in Miami Shores

MIAMI SHORES, FL. – Miami Shores police announced Tuesday the arrest of a habitual criminal they say is accused of stealing expensive items from victims at golf courses across the country over the past year.

MSPD said they responded to a report of a theft at a local golf course on May 30.

Investigators confirmed that stolen items, including a gun, a Rolex watch and identification documents, were taken from the victim’s golf cart during play.

Authorities said that after reviewing surveillance footage and license plate reader technology, investigators located the vehicle linked to the theft leading to a home at 1700 South Bayshore Dr.

On June 4, Miami Shores Police, in cooperation with the Miami Police Department, confirmed the arrest of 54-year-old Ivan Urquiza, who they said was operating under the alias “Philip Vincente.”

Police said Urquiza is wanted in multiple states for multiple theft-related offenses and has eluded capture since 2013.

Authorities confirmed that Urquiza was found in possession of stolen property, strongly linking him to the May 30 incident.

According to an arrest report, Miami Shores police said they observed Urquiza on surveillance video taking “numerous items” from a customer’s golf cart at Miami Beach Golf Club, located at 2301 Alton Rd. 15th January.

Detectives also said Urquiza used the website Sugardaddy.com to defraud young women by telling them he was wealthy. Authorities said he visits golf courses every day and travels across the country to pursue his illegal activities there.

Police said: “Given the scope of his activities, we suspect there are additional victims.”

Jail records show Urquiza faces one count each of third-degree theft, unlawful possession of a stolen debit or credit card, unlawful possession of five or more forms of identification and dealing in stolen property.

He remained at the Metro West Detention Center as of Tuesday, where his bond had not yet been set due to an out-of-state arrest warrant.

Anyone who feels they have been victimized by the suspect should call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 or Miami Shores Police at 305-759-2468.