SARASOTA, Fla. — Following a three-day operation at University Town Center mall, Sarasota authorities arrested 11 people on theft charges.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) said their tactical and intelligence units, criminal investigations section, and patrol bureau conducted the operation from Nov. 18 to 20.
As a result, 11 individuals were taken into custody and collectively charged with seven misdemeanors and eight felonies.
Of those arrested, three had no prior criminal history, while the remaining eight accounted for 111 prior felony charges and 117 prior misdemeanor charges, according to SCSO.
The arrested individuals are:
Aleksandra Bobala, 47
Antwan Blackmon, 36
Edyta Sullivan, 55
Fred Gentle, 31
Issac John, 26
Lee Spengler, 34
Lisa Friday, 42
Orestes Calero Jr., 47
Perla Carreras, 64
Saquona Jenkins, 38
Vincent John, 30
They face charges including grand theft, petty theft, and obstruction.
The sheriff’s office noted that retail thefts at the mall typically rise during the holiday shopping season. Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman said the operation aimed to identify, disrupt, and prevent theft and arrest offenders before the busy season.
“This proactive enforcement was able to disrupt and hopefully deter criminal activity,” Hoffman said. “The results show our commitment to stopping organized theft, preventing repeat offenders, and ensuring community safety.”
