A liquor theft scheme was busted in Central Florida.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested three individuals following an investigation into an organized theft scheme targeting a Tampa-based alcohol distribution company.
The Central Florida company reported an ongoing internal theft involving a delivery driver, a warehouse associate, and a third suspect.
Detectives determined that warehouse associates concealed cases of high-end liquor on pallets during overnight shifts. The stolen merchandise was then loaded onto delivery trucks after security seals were broken and reapplied.
According to local law enforcement, the delivery driver knowingly departed the warehouse without reporting the compromised seals and made unauthorized stops along his route, primarily at a Wendy’s in Seffner. At these locations, the stolen liquor was transferred to a vehicle operated by the third suspect. The merchandise was then transported to a home located on the 14000 block of Alistar Manor Drive in Wimauma, where it was stored and sold.
Detectives executed a court-authorized search warrant at the home, recovering approximately $75,000 worth of stolen liquor.
The following individuals were arrested in connection with this investigation:
- 54-year-old Darrell Glass for Organized Fraud Over $50,000, Grand Theft Second Degree, and Dealing in Stolen Property.
- 31-year-old Mario Bancroft for Organized Fraud Over $50,000, and Grand Theft Second Degree.
- 45-year-old Lateisha Glass for Grand Theft Second Degree, and Dealing in Stolen Property.
Additionally, a 2022 Toyota Corolla used during the crime was seized, according to law enforcement.
“This case highlights the calculated efforts of individuals who exploited their positions for personal gain,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Thanks to the diligence of our detectives and the cooperation of the victim company, those responsible are now facing serious consequences.”
