Florida man arrested for stealing more than $422,000 and sending money to the Dominican Republic

A man identified as Jorge Emilio García Pérez has been arrested in Florida, accused of participating in an organized fraud and theft scheme involving merchandise valued at more than $422,000, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced.

According to Uthmeier, García Pérez allegedly obtained quartz countertops from several businesses using stolen personal information and credit cards. He then reportedly sold the materials and transferred the proceeds to the Dominican Republic.

The attorney general announced the arrest in a post on his X account on October 30, stating that García Pérez faces charges of racketeering and participating in an organized scheme to defraud.

Investigation involved multiple Florida cities

Uthmeier said the investigation demonstrates the ability of state prosecutors to coordinate efforts across multiple jurisdictions to bring suspects before the courts.

The operation involved the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and police departments in Tampa, Cape Coral, Lakeland, Port St. Lucie, Orlando and Ocoee.

The attorney general thanked the agencies for their cooperation in the investigation, which led to the suspect’s identification and arrest.

The information released so far does not specify when the alleged scheme began, how many businesses were affected or whether other individuals are involved. It also does not indicate whether García Pérez has retained an attorney or when he is expected to appear in court.

The allegations have not been established in court.