Deputies in Clay County are asking for the public's help in identifying a man seen stealing a cellphone from a Verizon Wireless store in Orange Park.

The Wells Road location is in close proximity to Interstate 295 and the Duval County line, so the thief could be a resident of either Clay or Duval counties, deputies said.

Anyone with information about the man's identity is asked to call the Clay County Sheriff's Office at 904-264-6512.

Deputies said it is likely that the thief has or is using the same sly story -- having to charge his phone or shopping for prepaid phones -- at other cellphone store locations that display phone models.

Stores in the region should pay attention to the photos of the thief and be on the lookout for him should he attempt a similar theft elsewhere, deputies said.