In an unexpected turn of events, Cuban comedian Javier Berridy found himself the victim of theft during a seemingly ordinary day at Miami Beach. Berridy shared his experience on social media, prompting a flood of reactions that all seemed to point in the same direction.
The comedian recounted how he visited the beach with his wife and child, leaving their belongings on the sand. Despite his wife's insistence on keeping an eye on their things—an instinct honed on Cuban beaches—Berridy downplayed the concern.
"My wife, who still has that Cuban instinct, kept telling me to watch our stuff because it could get stolen, and I told her, 'Come on, how could that happen here? We're in the U.S.' You tend to disconnect from that mindset here. It's not like in Cuba, where you'd be constantly looking back and forth between your stuff and the ocean," he explained.
However, his wife's intuition proved to be spot on. Upon returning from the water, they discovered that a pair of flip-flops and a small pouch had been stolen. Fortunately, their more valuable items were in another bag that remained untouched.
"They took about $30 or $40, some toys for the kid, a pack of gum, and I can't recall what else... Nothing important, no credit cards or wallet," Berridy remarked.
Despite the minor scale of the theft, the incident left Berridy surprised and resolved to be more cautious in the future. "I don't know if this is common on these beaches, but it's the first time it's happened to me. Hopefully, it will be the last. From now on, I'll keep one eye on the ocean and the other on our belongings," he stated.
Following his story, numerous followers shared similar experiences, agreeing that thefts have become more frequent at Miami Beach, attributing it to the influx of migrants in recent years. Some even compared it to the beaches of Cuba.
Comments ranged from, "Relax, it was probably one of the newcomers," to "Are you sure you were at Miami Beach and not Guanabo?" Many lamented that "this never used to happen here," blaming the changes on recent waves of immigrants, suggesting a shift in the local culture.
What started as a simple anecdote quickly evolved into a heated discussion about how public safety in Miami has changed over the years. While for Berridy it was a story to tell, for many others, it confirmed a growing perception: Miami isn't what it used to be.
Security Concerns in Miami Beach: What You Need to Know
How common are thefts on Miami Beach?
Thefts on Miami Beach have reportedly become more frequent, with many attributing this change to the recent influx of new residents and visitors.
What should visitors do to protect their belongings at the beach?
Visitors should keep a vigilant eye on their belongings, avoid leaving valuables unattended, and consider using bags that can be securely closed or kept within sight.
Has Miami Beach's safety changed over the years?
Many locals and visitors have noted changes in safety, with increased reports of theft and other incidents, suggesting a shift in the atmosphere and security measures.