HCSO Arrests 14 in $5 Million Organized Retail Theft Operation
- The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested 14 people and seized roughly $5 million in stolen merchandise during a operation dubbed "Operation D-Fence," according to a press release from...
- Detectives launched the investigation in November 2025 after receiving a tip regarding a stolen property scheme.
- According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, the criminal network targeted major retailers including The Home Depot and Lowe's, alongside various construction sites.
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The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested 14 people and seized roughly $5 million in stolen merchandise during a operation dubbed “Operation D-Fence,” according to a press release from the agency. Investigators served four search warrants on May 4, 2026, recovering $220,000 in U.S. currency and seven vehicles connected to the criminal enterprise.
Detectives launched the investigation in November 2025 after receiving a tip regarding a stolen property scheme. Suspects knowingly purchased stolen goods and resold them for profit, a practice commonly known as fencing. As the inquiry expanded, investigators uncovered a coordinated network spanning Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Scope and Methods of the Retail Theft Operation
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the criminal network targeted major retailers including The Home Depot and Lowe’s, alongside various construction sites. The group utilized multiple methods to acquire merchandise, including stealing products directly from store shelves, using false invoices to obtain goods at reduced prices, and returning stolen items for cash refunds.
At construction sites, investigators stated that suspects cut locks on storage containers to steal appliances, tools, electrical supplies, fixtures, and hardware. Detectives identified a residence in Lutz, Florida, as the central hub of the network. Stolen goods moved from theft locations to storage and distribution sites before being sold locally or through online marketplaces. Investigators tracked more than 1,800 online sales transactions connected to the operation over the preceding year.
Key Arrests and Charges Filed
Law enforcement identified Hoover Rengifo, 55, as the alleged leader of the organization. Investigators reported that Rengifo operated alongside family members and other associates.
Those taken into custody face serious charges, including racketeering, trafficking in stolen property, money laundering, and grand theft.
Operating across multiple states, this massive criminal enterprise deliberately targeted various businesses and generated immense profits from stolen merchandise rather than consisting of casual offenders.
Sheriff Chad Chronister
Sheriff Chad Chronister added a warning regarding ongoing enforcement efforts in a press release.
Anyone caught stealing, selling, or purchasing illicit merchandise within Hillsborough County will be tracked down and brought to justice by law enforcement.
Sheriff Chad Chronister
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office stated that the investigation remains active. Authorities plan to release additional updates as the case develops.