MIAMI, Fla. — The Office of Statewide Prosecution has charged four individuals with felony counts of racketeering and grand theft in connection with a scheme that stole more than $500,000 worth of electronics, said Attorney General James Uthmeier.
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According to the investigation, Giffton St. Abuyn White, Sheldon Beswick Brown, Christopher Palmer, and Samuel Drummond are accused of diverting UPS shipments of cell phones and other items intended for T-Mobile stores. The defendants then allegedly sold the stolen merchandise to a third party for profit.
“Florida is a law and order state, and we take organized retail theft seriously—if you commit this crime, know that our law enforcement partners will find you,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier.
“I want to thank our Office of Statewide Prosecution for putting this case together and ensuring these criminals will face justice.”
The alleged theft ring reportedly operated in Broward, Martin, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie counties. Investigators stated the scheme resulted in losses exceeding $500,000 for T-Mobile.
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All four defendants face charges of conspiracy to commit racketeering, organized scheme to defraud $50,000 or more, dealing in stolen property, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device.
Mr White, Mr Brown, and Mr Drummond are also charged with grand theft in excess of $100,000. Mr Palmer faces an additional charge of grand theft exceeding $20,000 but less than $100,000. The conspiracy, grand theft over $100,000, and fraud charges are first-degree felonies.
Authorities have arrested White, Palmer, and Brown. Drummond has reportedly fled the state and has an active warrant.
Assistant Statewide Prosecutors Chris Olowin and Monique Wilson from Attorney General Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution will handle the case.
