Tampa, Fla. (970 WFLA)- A two-month investigation involving the sale of stolen goods wrapped up last week when Hillsborough Sheriff Detectives arrested 34 suspects and recovered over $90,000 in new items, still in their boxes, along with five pounds of marijuana and other stolen goods.
Detectives worked in conjunction with Home Depot corporate security to target thieves, called boosters, who were stealing goods from their store, as well as others retailers, and then reselling them to intermediaries, or fences, for almost 80% off retail.
The fences would then sell the stolen goods to the public at approximately 30% off the retail price claiming they were authorized dealers, bought in bulk or they were selling a gift they received. The fences used OfferUp, Let-Go and Facebook Marketplace to advertise their stolen goods.
The Home Depot Corporation revealed a total loss of $2.4 million in power tools over 12 months from four stores in the eastern portion of Hillsborough County, including in Brandon, Riverview, Valrico and Sun City Center.
On April 19-20, detectives conducted a two-day sting operation where the "boosters" were targeted as they were attempting to steal from the stores. This resulted in the arrest of 21 subjects.
On April 24th, the Hillsborough Sheriff's Office executed simultaneous search warrants at the residences of the four main Fences. They arrested 31 year old Joshua Burr, 37 year old Kyle Walters, 46 year old Duane Gutherie, and 34 year old Aaron Orr.
Between them, they were collectively charged with eight 1st Degree Felonies and nine 2nd Degree Felonies. Two had their felony probation revoked.
During their arrests, the following items were seized:
Over $90,000.00 of New In Box merchandise
$30,000.00 in U.S. currency
5.2 Pounds of Marijuana
A stolen, 2008 boat
A stolen, 2015 boat trailer
A 2005 Dixie Chopper lawn mower
A 2013 Dodge Challenger
A 2010 Honda Accord
Photo Credit: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office