Community Tips Help Detectives Identify and Arrest Retail Theft Suspects

Cape Coral, FL – The Cape Coral Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit has arrested two individuals in connection with a retail theft that occurred at a local Target store.

On June 5, 2026, officers responded to a delayed report of a theft at Target, located at 2430 Santa Barbara Boulevard South. The investigation revealed that on June 1, 2026, two individuals entered the store and selected a Samsung projector valued at $799.99. While using the self-checkout, the suspects scanned a barcode for a significantly lower-priced item instead of the projector, resulting in the theft.

The case was assigned to the Cape Coral Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit, which conducted a detailed investigation that included reviewing surveillance footage, collecting evidence, and following up on community tips. After the Cape Coral Police Department shared images from the incident on its Facebook and Instagram platforms, several tips were received from members of the public that helped detectives identify the suspects.

On June 24, 2026, officers attempted to make contact with the suspects at a residence in Cape Coral. Upon realizing law enforcement presence, both individuals fled from the residence. They were later observed changing their clothing at a nearby gym in an apparent attempt to avoid detection.

On June 25, 2026, the suspects arrived at the Cape Coral Police Department, where they were taken into custody without incident.

Elle Bradford (DOB: 04/02/1989) and Jeremiah Patrick Garcia (DOB: 09/22/1992) were transported to the Lee County Jail and charged with:

  • Grand Theft (F.S.S. 812.014(2)(c)1)
  • Resisting an Officer Without Violence (F.S.S. 843.02)

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