Six people have been charged by the Florida Office of Statewide Prosecution in connection with a large-scale theft and identity fraud scheme that spanned at least five counties, according to an announcement from Attorney General James Uthmeier.
The group is allegedly linked to the “Felony Lane Gang,” a Fort Lauderdale-based criminal enterprise known for targeting public places such as gyms and parks. Authorities say that between March 2021 and May 2023, the defendants conducted more than 200 smash-and-grab burglaries, stealing wallets, purses, checkbooks, credit cards, identification documents, and passports. Using this stolen information, they are accused of cashing forged checks and withdrawing funds from victims’ bank accounts.
The total amount stolen during this period exceeded $385,000. Among those affected were 55 senior citizens.
Attorney General James Uthmeier stated: “The broader issue at hand here is that repeat offenders pose a major threat to the safety of our communities. Too often, these criminals are arrested, released, and given another chance to prey on innocent people. In Florida, we don’t just arrest criminals—we keep them behind bars where they belong.”
Statewide Prosecutor Brad McVay added: “The Office of Statewide Prosecution will deploy every tool to dismantle criminal networks made up of career fraudsters and thieves that prey on hardworking Floridians. The Office will pursue hefty and enhanced charges to ensure individuals convicted of operating as part of one of these organized crime rings are kept behind bars for a very long time, where they can no longer victimize Floridians.”
The defendants face charges including RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), conspiracy to commit RICO, and scheme to defraud. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison as well as fines up to $10,000.
This case will be prosecuted by the Office of Statewide Prosecution under Attorney General Uthmeier’s direction.
