Attorney General Ashley Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution has charged three individuals in connection with an organized retail theft ring in South Florida. Ariel McFarlane, Lequentin Butler, and Eddy Etienne face multiple felony charges following a Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office investigation. The trio is accused of committing over 35 thefts across Palm Beach and Broward counties within four months.
The suspects allegedly targeted major retailers, stealing items such as laundry detergent, fragrances, and expensive clothing. Attorney General Ashley Moody commented on the case, stating: "All the laundry detergent and perfume in the state of Florida couldn’t cover up the stench of guilt emanating from these organized retail thieves. They committed more than 35 thefts from multiple retailers in South Florida, stealing more than $15,000 worth of laundry detergent, fragrances and expensive clothing. Now, my statewide prosecutors will make sure they pay for this four-month crime spree spanning multiple counties."
The investigation revealed that between January and April, McFarlane, Butler, and Etienne stole goods from stores including CVS, Walgreens, Publix, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale's. The stolen items were then sold online via McFarlane’s Facebook Marketplace page and Instagram account. Deliveries were made to customers using McFarlane’s vehicle.
Charges against the defendants include conspiracy to commit racketeering, organized retail theft, and unlawful use of two-way communications devices. Additionally, McFarlane and Butler face charges for dealing in stolen property while Etienne is charged with grand theft.
Etienne remains at large; he is currently residing in the country on a green card.
Assistant Statewide Prosecutors Chris Olowin and Kristin Howe have been assigned to handle the case.