Two women in Tampa, Florida, were apprehended for allegedly stealing merchandise from a local store, shedding light on a possible connection to a broader organized retail theft network. The incident highlights ongoing efforts to combat crime in the area, with implications for immigration proceedings pending their court appearances.
Deputies in Tampa, Florida, arrested two women on Tuesday afternoon after they allegedly stole merchandise from a Burlington store on Cochran Blvd. Authorities believe the women may be part of a larger organized retail theft ring.
According to a press release from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call from store employees shortly after 3:00 PM. The employees reported witnessing two women stealing items. Responding deputies located the women and their vehicle in the store’s parking lot.
Following a brief detention, a search of the vehicle uncovered a significant amount of clothing with tags from various stores, including Marshall’s and Ross. Deputies also found tools suspected to be used for removing anti-theft devices from merchandise.
The women, identified as 33-year-old Carla Stephany Soto Araneda and 32-year-old Genesi Michael Flores Reyes, were arrested. Authorities confirmed their immigration status as undocumented and believe they may be part of a larger organized retail theft operation. Both women are facing charges of grand theft and possession of anti-theft device removal tools.
“I’m not sure why the message isn’t getting through to these out-of-towners that think they are going to come into Charlotte County, commit crimes, and get away with it. We have proven, multiple times, that it won’t fly here. Although I try not to make a habit of giving criminals advice, I do want to suggest that if they are passing through my county, just pass right on through. Don’t even stop… don’t try your nonsense here,” said Sheriff Bill Prummell.
Araneda and Reyes are currently being held at the Charlotte County Jail on a combined bond of $20,000. Following their court appearances, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials will likely address their immigration status.
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