In a tale as Floridian as an alligator wrestling a python, two Miami men embarked on a shopping spree that would make even the most dedicated Black Friday shopper blush.
Their whirlwind tour of major retailers across the state came to a screeching halt in Collier County, leaving behind a trail of stolen deodorant, razor blades, and enough fishing gear to stock a small tackle shop.
Carlos M. Garcia-Ajete, 40, and Nivaldo J. Garcia-Vento, 41, apparently thought they had a green light to help themselves to whatever caught their eye.
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Collier County Deputies say the duo, suspected members of an organized retail theft ring, targeted stores like Publix, Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Winn-Dixie with the precision of a seasoned coupon clipper.
“The theft spree stops here, thanks to the outstanding efforts of our hardworking deputies and detectives,” Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said. “These individuals will now be held accountable for their criminal actions, not only in Collier County but other jurisdictions as well.”
Sheriff Rambosk pointed out the impact such crimes have on everyone’s wallets. “Retail theft is a serious problem in Florida,” he said. “It drives up the cost of goods, and we all suffer through higher prices.”
So, next time you grumble about the cost of deodorant, you might have these two fellas to thank.
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The dynamic duo’s escapade ended with a traffic stop and a brief foot chase. Garcia-Ajete, perhaps channeling his inner Olympian, attempted a daring escape but was quickly apprehended. Their SUV, a veritable treasure trove of stolen merchandise, even contained a device used to disable store security tags. These guys were clearly not messing around.
The merchandise included 400 deodorant sticks, razor blades, razors, fishing gear, cosmetics, and other items valued at nearly $5,000.
Garcia-Vento and Garcia-Ajete now face multiple felony charges, including grand theft. And while their shopping spree may be over, their legal troubles are just beginning.
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