South Miami police search for man described as serial burglar: "He should be behind bars"

Police in South Miami are asking the public for help in locating a man who they described as a serial burglar.

The case is a top priority for South Miami police, who tell CBS News Miami that the man has an extensive rap sheet, including arrests and convictions.

Video released by South Miami police shows a man in the parking lot of an apartment building on Tuesday looking through unlocked cars and taking items from inside.

South Miami police have identified the man as Walter Tyson Gervais, 48. South Miami police Sgt. Fernando Bosch said he will steal whatever he can get his hands on.

He said he believes that Gervais is from the area and may be homeless, and he said he's also worried that crimes could become more serious in the future if he isn't caught.

"This individual in this case is a career criminal with an extensive past," Bosch said, "One of the most extensive pasts I've seen in a long time. He shouldn't be out walking around. He should be behind bars."

Sgt. Bosch said Gervais has also been charged with committing strong-arm robberies.

He said, "He's committed probation violations before, after serving time as a criminal. I believe he probably has a drug problem. He is homeless at this point. This type of individual can do anything. You don't know what is in his mind. If he is on drugs, anything can happen."

Bosch said Gervais has been known to frequent Marshal Williamson Park in South Miami.

He said, "He is about 5 feet 9 inches tall and has salt-and-pepper hair and walks with a little swag."

If you have seen Gervais, Bosch urges you to call South Miami Police at 305-663-6301 or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).