04-04-2025
3 men stole $6M worth of semi-trucks, dump trucks from across Tampa Bay, deputies say
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Three people have been arrested for their roles in a widespread vehicle theft ring, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
Rayge Sanchez, 40, Christian Garcia Diaz, 26, and Jose Nuñez, 29, are believed to have stolen several semi-trucks and dump trucks from multiple Florida counties, with the total loss valued at more than $6 million, investigators said.
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The thefts spanned back as far as September 2024, according to authorities. Deputies said the suspects targeted vehicles throughout Tampa Bay, with thefts reported in Hillsborough, Polk, Hernando, Pasco, Sarasota and Pinellas counties.
A month-long investigation by the HCSO's Auto Theft Unit led to the identification of the three suspects, who are now each facing multiple counts of grand theft over $100,000 and charges for RICO conspiracy or endeavor.
'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.'
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