LEE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — Two men have been arrested after allegedly stealing entire water systems from unsuspecting Florida homeowners, bringing an end to a month-long crime spree.
Sheriff Carmine Marceno announced the arrests, stating, “Thanks to the relentless work of our team, we identified the suspects involved in this crime spree, recovered stolen property, and put two criminals where they belong.” He warned potential thieves, “If you choose to steal from our hardworking community members, we will track you down, build a strong case, and hold you accountable for your actions.”
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office said that the investigation kicked off on Thursday when deputies responded to a grand theft report on 12th St. W in Lehigh Acres.
Two suspects were allegedly seen stealing an entire water system from a residence, backing their vehicle up to the home and making a hasty getaway.
Detectives said that they discovered that this theft was not an isolated occurrence. They have been actively investigating similar incidents throughout April and May.
Through the investigation, deputies said that they identified a suspect vehicle linked to these thefts.
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The report states that the breakthrough came when deputies located the van and conducted a traffic stop on E. Lee Blvd.
They detained Nilo Hernandez, 59, and Enery Perez Rodriguez, 45, for their involvement in the thefts.
Meanwhile, detectives executed a search warrant at Rodriguez’s residence on Elmwood Ave., where they uncovered the stolen water system on the back patio, still dripping from the freshly cut pipes.
Both Hernandez and Rodriguez have been accused of Grand Theft, and the 2nd Precinct Crime Section continues to investigate, with additional charges pending.
