Cargo Theft an Ethnic-Based Crime in Florida

Monday, November 3rd, 2014 Property

The best cargo thieves are expert planners. They are patient and precise and pull off million-dollar heists without pulling a gun. They strike nearly anywhere cargo moves — rest stops, parking lots, ware­houses.

Two weeks ago, bandits made off with 18 tons of Crisco from a tow lot in St. Petersburg. At first it was funny. Who needs $100,000 worth of shortening? But the FBI calls cargo theft a $30 billion a year problem, a sobering economic hit that can translate to higher retail prices.

"Cargo theft is a much bigger issue in America than anyone really believes," said Marion County sheriff’s Detective Erik Dice, a member of a statewide theft task force.

The thieves particularly like Florida. The state accounted for nearly a quarter of the country’s reported cargo thefts between March and May, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.


External References & Further Reading
http://www.theledger.com/article/20141101/NEWS/141109963/?Title=Even-When-It-s-a-Load-of-Crisco-Cargo-Theft-Is-No-Joke
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