Man accused of pointing gun at Miami Beach commissioner and escaping house arrest found, police say

MIAMI — A man accused of pointing a gun at a Miami Beach city commissioner and escaping house arrest last week has been found and arrested, police announced.

Christopher PitreThe 35-year-old was wanted for removing his ankle bracelet and escaping from a treatment facility while under the supervision of the Miami-Dade County Correctional Facility, Miami Beach police said.

He was arrested in April after authorities said he pointed a gun at Miami Beach Commissioner Joseph Magazine and stole numerous items from cars and stores across the city.

Pitre's escape prompted Miami Beach city officials to call for changes in Miami-Dade County's justice system, with Mayor Stephen Meiner saying he wanted the city to elect its own judges to fight crime.

Miami Beach police said Saturday that Pitre was arrested following a theft at a Walgreens store at 2000 Normandy Dr.

According to the police report, one of their officers saw a Walgreens employee taking photos of a man leaving the store. The officer then learned from the employee that the man – later identified as Pitre – had left the store without paying.

The officer then attempted to arrest Pitre, but he resisted and ran away. After giving chase, the officer was able to catch Pitre and arrest him without further incident.

He faces several charges, including shoplifting, resisting an officer without violence, using a false name/ID after arrest, and nine warrants for alias offenses.

“Our officer's quick action today is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Miami Beach Police Department,” said Miami Beach Police Chief Wayne A. Jones. “Our officers continue to be highly visible and engaged in the community, ensuring that incidents like this are addressed promptly. I am proud of the great work our team continues to do to keep our city safe.”