Two children, aged 10 and 12, encountered a terrifying ordeal on the evening of Sunday, August 23. Upon returning to their Hallandale Beach home, they were confronted by a gun-wielding intruder rummaging through their belongings, as reported by Telemundo 51.
The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Rashad Randzell Corouthers, gained entry through a broken rear window that was haphazardly covered with a piece of wood. The incident occurred in the 1000 block of Southwest Third Avenue in Broward County.
Security Footage Reveals Intruder's Actions
Surveillance cameras captured the intruder moving through the home with a covered face, using a flashlight, and carrying a bag presumed to be filled with valuables. According to the police report, "surveillance footage shows him navigating various areas of the home and placing items into a shopping bag."
Unexpectedly for Corouthers, the family returned home while he was still inside.
Children's Frightening Encounter
As the two children entered their home, they came face-to-face with the intruder. Authorities reported that the suspect pointed a gun at them, repeatedly commanding them to leave the house.
The children fled to their parents, who were waiting in the driveway. Security footage captured their screams and cries as the suspect made his escape.
Local resident Eve Mart expressed her outrage to Local 10, stating, "The thought of a man pointing a gun at a child is horrifying. You have to be deeply disturbed to do something like that."
Arrest and Criminal Background
Corouthers was apprehended on Tuesday, two days after the incident, partly due to the electronic GPS ankle monitor he was wearing. This fact is particularly concerning as the suspect was on probation awaiting trial for a previous burglary charge. Despite being a convicted felon with four prior felony convictions, he illegally possessed a firearm.
After appearing before a judge, bail was denied, and he was held in the main jail of Broward County. He faces charges of armed home invasion, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Police Response and Safety Recommendations
Hallandale Beach Police Chief Michel Michel expressed his dismay over the incident. "No family should have to endure what these two children went through in their own home," he stated. "Our hearts go out to them and their parents. We are especially relieved they were able to escape unharmed, and I am proud of the detectives and officers who worked tirelessly to bring this suspect into custody," Michel added.
In light of the incident, authorities have issued several safety tips for South Florida residents. Recommended measures include promptly repairing damaged windows and doors, keeping all entry points locked even when at home, installing exterior lighting near access points, and establishing a family plan to immediately evacuate and call 911 from a safe location in the event of an intruder.
FAQs on Home Invasion Safety in Florida
How did the intruder enter the home in Hallandale Beach?
The suspect entered the home through a broken rear window that was poorly covered with a piece of wood.
What measures can residents take to prevent home invasions?
Residents are advised to repair broken windows and doors immediately, lock all entries even when at home, install exterior lighting near access points, and have a family plan for immediate evacuation and contacting 911 in case of an intruder.
What charges does the suspect face?
The suspect, Rashad Randzell Corouthers, is charged with armed home invasion, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.