75-year-old man beaten and robbed in Fort Lauderdale apartment, police say; suspect arrested
Victim’s Neighbor Describes the Attack
An elderly man was beaten and robbed inside his Fort Lauderdale apartment by an intruder who found his way inside, leading police to make an arrest.
According to Fort Lauderdale Police, the 75-year-old victim was targeted inside his home along the 2900 block of Banyan Street, Friday night.
Neighbor Recounts the Incident
Speaking with 7News on Saturday, Charlie Diaz said the victim, called Norm, is his neighbor at the apartment building.
“Norm on the first floor, he was attacked last night,” said Diaz. “[The intruder] attacked him and beat him up, robbed him and stole his car and left him to die.”
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Detectives identified the assailant as 48-year-old Joseph Soini.
How the Suspect Got into the Building
Diaz said the intruder got into the building when Norm was taking out the trash.
At one point, Diaz added, the suspect was trying to get into his apartment.
“He was pulling on people’s doors. He finally got into one door, which was [Norm’s]. We don’t know how; he was waiting for him and attacked him when he got in there,” said Diaz.
Crime Scene and Investigation
Police said Soini attacked the victim with a trophy and attempted to strangle him before he left with the elderly man’s car.
Investigators said the suspect also stole Norm’s bicycle and nearly $4,000.
Police said they later found the stolen car near 330 North Federal Highway.
“They said helicopters were out looking for him, and they got him,” said Diaz.
Charges and Consequences
Soini was arrested Saturday morning. He faces a list of charges, including grand theft auto and possession of cocaine.
Building Security Concerns
“He got caught. but it’s not the first time that somebody has gotten into the building,” said Diaz. “This building definitely needs more security.”
Victim’s Condition and Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are still investigating this incident.
As for Norm, he is back home from the hospital and resting.
Conclusion
The brutal attack on the 75-year-old man in his Fort Lauderdale apartment serves as a stark reminder of the importance of security and vigilance in our communities. As the investigation continues, it is essential that authorities work to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that measures are taken to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
FAQs
* What happened to the victim?
The 75-year-old man was beaten and robbed inside his Fort Lauderdale apartment by an intruder who found his way inside.
* Who was arrested in connection with the crime?
48-year-old Joseph Soini was arrested and faces charges including grand theft auto and possession of cocaine.
* What was stolen from the victim?
The suspect stole the victim’s car, bicycle, and nearly $4,000.
* Is the building where the crime occurred secure?
According to the victim’s neighbor, the building has had security issues in the past, and it is unclear if the building has taken adequate measures to prevent future incidents.
