Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution has filed felony charges against three individuals involved in an organized crime ring accused of stealing over $15,000 worth of merchandise from retailers across South Florida.
The suspects—Ariel McFarlane, Lequentin Butler, and Eddy Etienne—are believed to have committed over 35 thefts between January and April, targeting well-known stores such as CVS, Walgreens, Publix, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s. Items stolen ranged from laundry detergent and perfumes to luxury clothing.
The trio reportedly sold the stolen goods through McFarlane’s Facebook Marketplace and Instagram accounts, delivering them to buyers across Palm Beach and Broward counties using McFarlane’s vehicle.
In a statement, Attorney General Moody emphasized the seriousness of the crime: “The laundry detergent and perfume in Florida couldn’t mask the guilt of these thieves. They carried out over 35 thefts from several retailers, stealing more than $15,000 worth of goods. Now, my prosecutors will ensure they pay for their crime spree across multiple counties.”
Charges Against the Defendants:
- Ariel McFarlane: Charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering, organized retail theft, unlawful use of two-way communication devices, and dealing in stolen property.
- Lequentin Butler: Faces similar charges, including dealing in stolen property.
- Eddy Etienne: Charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering, organized retail theft, unlawful use of two-way communication devices, and grand theft. Etienne is currently at large and in the country on a green card.
The case will be overseen by Assistant Statewide Prosecutors Chris Olowin and Kristin Howe, who aim to deliver justice to the businesses affected and prevent future crimes of this nature.
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