Illegal Migrants Target Florida Homes After Hurricanes: 41 Arrested in Looting Crackdown
Florida police arrest 41 undocumented migrants accused of looting storm-hit homes after hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the coast. đ #News #PinellasCountyFL #Florida #Crime
PINELLAS COUNTY, FL – Law enforcement in Pinellas County, Florida, is facing a surge in criminal activity after hurricanes Helene and Milton battered the coastline. Amid the community’s recovery efforts, authorities have cracked down on looters and scammers exploiting the storm-ravaged areas.
Majority of Looting Suspects Found to Be Undocumented Immigrants
Following the two deadly storms, which left a trail of destruction and claimed more than a dozen lives in Pinellas County, police arrested 45 individuals involved in theft and vandalism. Officials confirmed that 41 of those arrested were undocumented migrants. These suspects were linked to crimes such as armed robbery, burglary, and loitering, targeting properties left vulnerable during evacuation orders.
Authorities also reported stopping nearly 200 individuals for suspicious activity in affected areas. Of these, 163 were determined to be in the U.S. illegally, but they were released because officers lacked sufficient legal grounds for arrest. Law enforcement emphasized that their swift action prevented further crimes in neighborhoods struggling to rebuild.
Ongoing Law Enforcement Response
To protect evacuated homes and businesses, the sheriffâs department deployed 80 additional officers across affected areas.
The goal was to deter criminal behavior and maintain safety amid the chaos caused by the hurricanes. Officials stressed that patrols will remain active as the countyâs recovery process continues.
Fraud Scams Add to Community’s Struggles
In addition to looters, authorities uncovered fraud schemes targeting desperate homeowners. A total of 58 individuals were charged with defrauding hurricane victims out of approximately $250 million.
Many promised repair work that was never completedâor never even started. Law enforcement has not confirmed whether any of those involved in the scams were undocumented migrants.
Prioritizing Recovery and Security
As residents rebuild from the devastation, local authorities are committed to maintaining an active presence to prevent further crimes. Officials plan to continue monitoring for looting and fraud, focusing on keeping both residents and businesses safe while they recover from the impact of the storms.
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