A surveillance camera may have thwarted a clean getaway for a suspect seen burglarizing a Gwinnett County laundromat.

Police on Monday released a photo showing a man breaking into the laundry area at the Summer Park Apartments in Buford, and they are seeking the public’s help in identifying him.

Cpl. Michele Pihera said the crime occurred early Aug. 10. Surveillance video showed the middle-aged man crawling through a rear door after first removing the hinges and pushing a blue laundry basket with tools through the opening.

After spending about 45 minutes drilling into the side of a washing machine, the suspect got away with about $400, police said. He did about $250 in damage to the washing machine.

The suspect was seen talking on his cell phone, so police believe there may have been an accomplice serving as a “look-out.”

Anyone with information can contact burglary detectives at 770 513-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 404 577-TIPS (8477), or visit www.crimestoppersatlanta.org. Crime Stoppers tipsters can receive up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case.