(April 4, 2024, 2024) — The Cape Coral Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit has continually been working to investigate a local crime ring involving the theft of construction equipment and other types of motor vehicles. We previously sent out a release detailing a search warrant that resulted in the seizure of a boat, money, and drugs. This investigation has continued, with multiple search warrants and arrests.
Most recently, our Property Crimes Detectives conducted shop inspections at four different auto shops throughout Cape Coral, checking for stolen vehicles. The investigation led detectives to conduct a shop inspection at Direct Tires, and they were able to locate the owner of the shop, Yusniel Valdes Darias (DOB 05/01/1984), whom detectives had multiple felony charges against. The investigation of several cases revealed that Valdes Darias stole numerous pieces of heavy machinery, including skid steers and Gator Side by Sides. The arrest of Valdes Darias is the result of over a yearlong investigation by our Property Crimes Unit.
On March 29, 2024, Yusniel Valdes Darias was arrested and charged with the following:Â
–1 count in violation of F.S.S. 812.014(2a2), Grand theft of 50,000+
–1 count in violation of F.S.S. 812.019(1), Dealing in Stolen PropertyÂ
–1 count in violation of 810.02(4b), Burglary of an unoccupied conveyanceÂ
Arrested:Â Yusniel Valdes Darias (DOB 05/01/1984, 420 NW 25th Place, Cape Coral, Florida)
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