Florida Man Arrested After Stolen Radiological Device Found Via Facebook Marketplace
Quick Look
- A Florida man, Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., was arrested after a stolen radiological device was found at his home in Bradenton.
- The device, a moisture density gauge containing Cesium-137, was located using a Facebook Marketplace listing.
- Authorities warned of health risks from radiation exposure.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
A stolen radiological device, a moisture density gauge valued between $10,000 and $20,000, was the subject of a multi-agency investigation. The device contains Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope that can cause severe health complications if mishandled.
A Florida man was arrested after investigators tracked a stolen radiological device to his home using a Facebook Marketplace listing, authorities said.
The suspect, 24-year-old Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., was taken into custody following a multi-agency investigation into the theft of a moisture density gauge valued between $10,000 and $20,000.
State troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol recovered the device intact from a home in Bradenton.
The machinery contains Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope. Authorities warned that improper handling or damage to the unit could cause severe health complications due to radiation exposure.
According to state troopers, the investigation began May 26 when the FHP Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Intelligence received information regarding a private sale on social media. Investigators traced the online listing back to Benitez and arranged an undercover purchase.
When Benitez missed the scheduled meeting time, investigators went directly to his home, according to state authorities. From outside the property, specialized troopers deployed radiation detection equipment, which immediately triggered an industrial-level alert confirming the presence of nuclear material inside.
Members of the FHP Preventive Radiological Nuclear Detection unit found the device hidden inside the house. Officials confirmed the radioactive source was undisturbed and secured the equipment as evidence.
In a public statement, Dave Kerner, executive director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, commended the responding troopers for their expertise.
“The Florida Highway Patrol is home to some of the most sophisticated and technically experienced criminal investigators,” Kerner said. “Our Radiological and Nuclear Detection State Troopers are a vital component to our public safety mission.”
Kerner credited the collaborative effort among the agency's specialized units with securing the arrest.
“Florida is safer as a result,” he said.
Under Florida law, only operators licensed through the Department of Health are permitted to possess or handle this type of specialized equipment, which is typically used in construction to analyze soil and asphalt composition.
Benitez has been charged with grand theft and illegal possession of a controlled radiation device without a license.
Open Questions
- How was the device stolen?
- What was Benitez's intent with the device?
- Was the device damaged or mishandled prior to recovery?
- Are there any other individuals involved in the theft or possession?
