Commercial Vehicle Theft: Three Arrests Made In Florida Crime Ring

Florida Commercial Vehicle Theft Ring Busted in $6M Multi-County Operation

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) arrested three men connected to a major vehicle theft ring. The group targeted commercial trucks across several Florida counties. The stolen vehicles included semi-trucks and dump trucks. Total value of the thefts is over $6 million.

Multi-County Commercial Vehicle Theft Investigation Lasted Months

The HCSO Auto Theft Unit started the investigation several months ago. Detectives noticed a pattern of large vehicle thefts across different parts of Florida. Stolen trucks were reported in Hillsborough, Polk, Hernando, Pasco, Sarasota, and Pinellas counties. The crimes go back as far as September 2024.

Three Suspects Taken Into Custody for Commercial Vehicle Theft

The investigation was done in partnership with the Statewide Prosecutor’s Office. Officers identified and arrested three men believed to be involved in the theft ring:

• Rayge Sanchez, 40

• Christian Garcia Diaz, 26

• Jose Nuñez, 29

Each man now faces multiple felony charges. These include Grand Theft over $100,000 and RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Conspiracy.

Charges by Suspect:

• Rayge Sanchez – Grand Theft (x5), RICO Conspiracy

• Christian Garcia Diaz – Grand Theft (x5), RICO Conspiracy

• Jose Nuñez – Grand Theft (x7), RICO Conspiracy

Sheriff Highlights Impact on Local Economy

“These weren’t just stolen trucks; these were critical tools for businesses, livelihoods for families, and key components of infrastructure projects across our region,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Thanks to the relentless work of our Auto Theft Unit and our partners at the Statewide Prosecutor’s Office, we’ve stopped a major criminal enterprise that was taking from those who help drive our economy forward.”

Cargo and Commercial Vehicle Theft Increasing Nationwide

This case is part of a growing national trend. Cargo and commercial vehicle theft are rising fast. In 2024, reported cargo thefts increased by 27% across the United States. A total of 3,625 cases were reported nationwide.

Each theft cost businesses an average of $202,364. In total, losses added up to about $455 million for the year.

Florida Among States Hit Hardest

Florida is one of the top states for cargo theft. In 2024, the state reported 153 cargo thefts. Many of these cases involved organized crime groups.

Criminals often use fake IDs or pose as shipping companies to steal freight. They take full trailers without drawing attention. These types of thefts are hard to trace.

What Thieves Are Targeting

Some of the most common items stolen include:

• Electronics (24% of cases)

• Home and garden products (10%)

• Food and drinks (10%)

• Miscellaneous items (15%)

Many thefts happen at cargo facilities or in unsecured parking areas. These places are often not well protected, making them easy targets.

The Cost to Business and the Economy

Cargo theft impacts more than just the companies involved. It drives up insurance premiums and causes delays in deliveries. It also creates financial stress for small businesses. When tools like trucks are stolen, the effect is immediate and serious.

The trucking industry is a major part of the U.S. economy. Crimes like these hurt not just one company but the entire supply chain.

Florida Commercial Vehicle Theft Investigation Still Ongoing

This is still an active investigation. More arrests could happen as it moves forward. HCSO and the Florida Highway Patrol continue to work closely with the Statewide Prosecutor’s Office and other law enforcement agencies.

More updates will be shared by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Public Affairs Office as new information becomes available.