A Central Florida man was busted after a Facebook Marketplace ad leads to thousands of dollars worth of stolen property.
Through investigative means, detectives discovered that 49-year-old Moises Lopez, the seller, was associated with another individual involved in construction thefts.
On July 9th, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office detectives investigating a recent theft of an AC unit from a new residential construction site in Ruskin, near Tampa, discovered a Facebook Marketplace advertisement for a unit that appeared to match the stolen make and model.
Undercover detectives met with Lopez at his Tampa residence to view the property.
While at the residence, detectives determined that the AC unit appeared to have been removed after being installed and remained unused.
Additionally, detectives observed a second new AC unit in similar condition and a water heater in Lopez’s garage.
Detectives obtained the serial numbers from the AC units and established that one had been stolen from a new residential construction site in Manatee County, while the second had been taken from Hillsborough County.
A court-authorized search warrant was carried out at Lopez’s residence, where detectives recovered two Carrier-brand AC units and a water heater.
Lopez was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Third Degree and Dealing in Stolen Property.
“Those who believe they can exploit hard-earned money from individuals in our community and businesses will face serious consequences. These crimes devastate our business community and local economy, and your sheriff’s office is steadfast in protecting both,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Let this serve as a clear message that our detectives are committed to investigating and apprehending individuals who commit theft crimes of any magnitude and attempt to take advantage of community members.”
This investigation is ongoing, according to local law enforcement.
