A member of a Romanian crime ring has been sentenced to five years in prison for stealing over $38,000 worth of smartphones and other merchandise from Walmart stores across Florida.
Vasile Bricage, co-defendant Antonio Briceag, and two unidentified female accomplices targeted Walmart locations in Citrus, Okaloosa, Pinellas, Santa Rosa, and Sarasota counties over six days.
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“This member of a Romanian crime ring targeted Walmart locations spanning five Florida counties — causing more than $38,000 in losses,” said Acting Attorney General John Guard. “Now, thanks to our Statewide Prosecutors, he will pay for his crimes.”
The group employed various tactics to steal the merchandise, including distracting employees, acting as lookouts, and using tools to disable anti-theft devices. In one instance, Bricage used a crowbar to pry open locked phone cabinets, resulting in the theft of 26 iPhones valued at over $22,000.
Bricage was charged with racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, retail theft, grand theft, and using anti-shoplifting countermeasures. He is a Romanian national and is currently under a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold.
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His co-defendant, Antonio Briceag, remains at large and is facing charges of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation, which resulted in Bricage’s arrest and conviction. This case highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies across multiple jurisdictions to combat organized retail crime.
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