Miami Beach — Twist nightclub, a stable in the gay community, has recorded several reports of people falling victim to thieves.

For over 30 years, this nightclub has stood as a cornerstone in the community, boasting unparalleled size and extravagance. It boasts the title of Miami's longest-running gay club, opening its doors over 30 years ago.

Despite its popularity, Twist has faced theft-related controversies, with incidents dating back to 2013. One case involved a customer alleging that his phone stolen during a lap dance.

Following an investigation, CBS News Miami uncovered numerous individuals who reported phone thefts at Twist. Inquiries with the Miami Beach Police Department revealed a staggering 454 property thefts at Twist nightclub from January 1, 2021, to March 1, 2023.

Twist Owner Joel Stedman and 1057 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach. Photo courtesy of The Real Deal.

The situation at Twist underscores a broader concern that has been murmured from nightclubs and bars all over the country. Given Miami's status as a major tourist destination, these incidents not only reflect poorly on Twist but also raise questions about the overall security of Miami Beach nightlife.

Recently, a statement has been made by Twist Nightclub owner, Joel Steadman where he states:

"Twist has worked directly with the Miami Beach Police Department to enact intensive security procedures specifically targeting cell phone losses. We can now report a dramatic decrease based on Miami Beach Police statistics that on average over the last 6 months, less than 2 phones reported during an entire month. Serving thousands of guests each month, we take our communities' safety very seriously."

The MBPD has reported they are unable to investigate every single reported theft, but they do analyze every report they receive. The reports pass through their system, and it is reviewed for solubility factors such as if the victim saw the theft happen and if the item surpasses a specified value threshold.

@kylehamiltonfineart Twist in Miami Beach has a huge pickpocket problem and they do nothing about it #Miami #MiamiBeach #LGBT #Twist #TwistSouthBeach #FYP #GAYBAR ♬ original sound - Kyle Hamilton

Kyle Hamilton, a local Miami resident takes to social media to publicly express his negative experience with Twist, stating: “Everytime me and my friends go, someone gets pick-pocketed”

Twist nightclub, a pillar in Miami Beach's gay community for over 30 years, has seen a surge in thefts, with 454 reported property thefts from January 2021 to March 2023. The incidents prompt concerns about the broader security of Miami Beach nightlife, leading owner Joel Steadman to implement measures resulting in a significant decrease in phone losses in the past six months.