FLORIDA — Three suspects, including two 18-year-olds and a juvenile, have been arrested after authorities say they stole thousands of dollars’ worth of baby formula as part of an organized retail theft ring operating in South Florida.
According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to multiple reports of large-scale retail thefts involving baby formula at several stores. Investigators said the suspects moved quickly from location to location in an effort to avoid detection.
Authorities identified the suspects as 18-year-olds Tanajah Mason and Amoni Pettway, along with a 15-year-old girl.
Law enforcement later located the suspects’ vehicle traveling south on Interstate 95. The Florida Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop, and a search of the vehicle revealed 262 cans of stolen baby formula, valued at approximately $8,000.
Deputies said the group had been traveling through Martin and St. Lucie counties, stealing large quantities of formula with the intention of reselling it. According to investigators, the suspects planned to sell the stolen formula for about $1,000 per 100 cans.
Authorities also reported that the suspects admitted to committing the thefts two to three days per week and using the activity as a source of personal income.
All three were arrested and charged with felony retail theft of more than $750. Officials believe the suspects are connected to a larger organized retail theft ring operating across South Florida.
The investigation remains ongoing.
