Police bodycam footage shows a cop arresting a man who stole a vehicle from a car park but then brought it back while officers were mid-investigation.

The suspected thief, named as Brian Middlebrooks, was taken into custody after officers from the Atlanta Police Department (APD) chased him down outside of the parking area.

He reportedly returned to the crime scene at 980 Howell Mill Rd NW, in the city of Atlanta, Georgia, USA, while the officers were still investigating.

The victim, whose identity was not disclosed, alerted the police that his truck had been stolen, on Monday, 7th November 2022.

He claimed that he had left his truck running in the parking area with the keys inside, but when he returned it was gone.

While reviewing surveillance footage cops saw a male suspect approach the victim’s vehicle and stand near it for several minutes before he finally got inside it and drove away.

The Atlanta Police Department said in a statement obtained by Newsflash: “While officers were still on scene, the suspect returned to the crime scene in the victim’s stolen vehicle and attempted to park it.

“Officers immediately recognized the suspect wearing a blue carrier vest as seen in the surveillance video.

“When officers attempted to question the suspect, he attempted to flee the scene on foot but was apprehended a short time later.”

A bodycam video of the officer chasing after Middlebrooks shows the offender saying: “You got me, bro. I ain’t running no more… I’m out of breath.”

Following his arrest, Middlebrooks was charged with auto theft, possession of cannabis and obstruction.

He was taken to the Fulton County Jail.

The Atlanta police said: “We are pleased with the work of these officers and the cooperation of the leasing office at this location in working with responding officers to solve this case quickly.

“We remind the community to never leave keys in the car and never leave the car running when you exit the vehicle. A few seconds is all it takes for a thief to take your car.

“It is always best to turn your car off and secure the vehicle when you get out of it.’

The video, which was posted on the police’s official Facebook page, prompted a lot of positive comments who praised the cops’ bravery.

One user, named as ‘Dorthey Hurst’ said: “Joy ride over. Stop leaving cars running! Good work APD.”

While another, named as ‘Andrew Johnson’ added: “That cardio. Great job officers.”

A third user, ‘Joel Treadwell’, added: “Can’t outrun APD.”

The investigation is ongoing.