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Florida authorities arrested six suspects involved in an organized cargo theft ring last week.
The operation was responsible for 32 cargo theft incidents and one vessel theft incident, causing estimated losses of about $7.8 million.
"This organized criminal operation targeted Florida's supply chain and caused nearly $7.8 million in losses across our state," said Attorney General James Uthmeier in a statement. "Thanks to the coordination between the Florida Highway Patrol, the Orlando Police Department and our Office of Statewide Prosecution, this group was identified and dismantled. Now, they'll answer for their crimes in court."
Authorities began investigating the ring in May 2023 when several thefts involving unattended commercial semi-trailers were reported around the Orlando area. Items stolen included retail merchandise, consumer electronics, copper wire, HVAC equipment, cooking oil and food products, and alcoholic beverages.
Investigators determined the thefts were being conducted by a major theft organization (MTO) that targeted parked semi-trailers. After stealing the vehicles and cargo, the ring would disable GPS devices to evade the cops. The stolen property was taken to South Florida and sold to co-conspirators to re-sell.
The six defendants face a combined maximum penalty of 300 years in the Florida Department of Corrections.
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