CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A 16-year-old Cape Coral teen, John David Ruiz, was arrested after being linked to the theft of nearly $9,000 in tactical security equipment, including firearm magazines and body armor.
The investigation began on July 10 when Ruiz’s father reported him as a runaway and turned over suspicious items found in the teen’s bedroom. Cape Coral Police said the recovered items included a black tactical vest labeled “SECURITY,” three AR-15 style rifle magazines, a handgun magazine, and a box of 9mm ammunition.
Days later, on July 12, officers responded to a report of a vehicle burglary that had occurred on July 8 in southeast Cape Coral. The victim, whose work truck was targeted, reported a loss totaling approximately $8,850. The vest found by Ruiz’s father was confirmed to be part of the stolen equipment.
Further investigation led to a second search of Ruiz’s home, where detectives discovered the victim’s cut-up ID hidden in the teen’s room.
On July 15, detectives spotted Ruiz at a Publix grocery store on Hancock Bridge Parkway. Aware of a warrant already issued for his arrest, they moved to detain him. Ruiz attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended without incident.
Ruiz now faces multiple charges:
Armed burglary of an unoccupied conveyance
Grand theft of a firearm
Grand theft ($5,000–$10,000)
Resisting an officer without violence
The case remains under investigation, and additional charges may follow.
