How 3SI+Wren’s Technology Captured a Fugitive and Stopped an ORC Ring

This case study highlights the commendable efforts of law enforcement during a high-stakes armed robbery at an Electronics Store in Oviedo, FL, which ultimately led to the discovery of a series of related crimes across multiple counties. Through GPS Tracking and other advanced technology, police officers and investigators spent three years meticulously working to ensure that justice was served, resulting in the successful incarceration of four repeat offenders. This incident underscores the vital role of GPS tracking technology in recovering stolen items and emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations in enhancing retail security and community safety. The collaboration between local authorities and the FBI led to the apprehension of the suspects and showcased the effectiveness of coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies. This analysis offers valuable insights into the challenges and successful strategies in combating organized retail crime.

Impact of ORC in the Oviedo, FL Region

Oviedo, Florida, is a pleasant city in Seminole County, just northeast of Orlando. Known for its historic downtown area, Oviedo offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The town is characterized by its beautiful parks, scenic trails, and a strong sense of community. Home to top-rated schools, Oviedo is a desirable place for families. Its proximity to major highways provides easy access to Orlando’s attractions while maintaining a peaceful suburban atmosphere.

However, the area is not immune to challenges, as theft and organized retail crime (ORC) have begun to impact local businesses. These crimes strain local law enforcement resources and create concerns among residents and business owners, potentially undermining the city’s sense of security, which is why robust security measures are needed to protect businesses and employees.

How Advanced Tracking Technology Foiled Armed Robbery at an Electronics Store

With ORC on the rise in Oviedo, it is no surprise that an Electronics Store became the scene of an armed robbery. On August 10, 2019, three individuals entered the Electronics Store while a fourth suspect sat in the getaway car. One suspect, armed with a handgun, ordered the employees into the back room. Then they snatched cell phones, cash, and a customer’s items, totaling $20,000. However, they unknowingly grabbed 3SI’s Phone Tracker™ during their heist. Once they finished their crime spree, they fled the store in the vehicle.

Once they left the store, Phone Tracker™ was activated. Local police utilized the location data provided by the Phone Tracker™ device to locate the suspects in a nearby neighborhood and catch the criminals while transferring the stolen items to another getaway car. Law enforcement arrested three suspects, but one got away. Despite the suspect evading them, they recovered the merchandise. However, the investigation did not stop there.

Police’s Interrogation Unveils Multi-County Robbery Spree

Once the three suspects were in police custody, the police began their interrogation. During the interrogation, two of the suspects cooperated with the authorities, confessing to four additional robberies of Electronics Stores in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. The police confirmed their involvement in these cases, further solidifying the charges against them, and the three criminals were sentenced to five to eleven years in prison.

While the three suspects were caught and convicted, the fourth person has yet to be apprehended. Because this individual was the one who held the employees at gunpoint, the Seminole County Police needed to apprehend them. Knowing that this suspect was armed and dangerous, the local police partnered with the FBI and launched an official investigation. After searching for three years, they managed to track the suspect down to New York and arrest them.

Once in police custody, the suspect pleaded guilty to robbery and brandishing a firearm during the crime, and they were sentenced to ten years in federal prison.

Our Products Lead to Prosecution

The successful resolution of the Electronics Store robbery in Oviedo, FL, underscores the critical importance of GPS tracking technology in modern law enforcement. In this case, the stolen cell phones were tracked with a GPS device covertly protecting the retail goods, allowing the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office to swiftly locate the suspects, stopping them from getting away. The real-time data provided by the tracking devices not only facilitated the immediate apprehension of the criminals but also played a pivotal role in unraveling a series of related robberies across multiple counties. This incident highlights how the integration of advanced tracking technology can significantly enhance the efficiency of law enforcement efforts, ensuring quicker response times and the successful recovery of stolen property, thereby reinforcing community safety and deterring future criminal activities.

What You Can Do to Prevent and Stop Theft at Your Electronics Store

Security is an ongoing commitment that is vital to protecting your business. Retailers must implement comprehensive security measures incorporating advanced technologies and proactive strategies to mitigate theft. To effectively prevent theft in your store, consider implementing these key strategies:

  • Comprehensive Security Measures: Installing high-quality surveillance cameras paired with video analytics throughout the store can deter potential thieves and provide crucial evidence in the event of a crime. Additionally, employing GPS tracking devices on high-value merchandise is essential, as demonstrated in the successful resolution of the robbery in Oviedo, FL. These devices enable real-time tracking of stolen items, facilitating fast recovery and aiding law enforcement in apprehending suspects.
  • Collaboration Between Law Enforcement Agencies: The case’s successful resolution resulted from the effective collaboration between 3SI’s Tracking Support Center and Law Enforcement Division local law enforcement, and the FBI. Multi-agency cooperation is essential in tackling organized retail crime that spans multiple jurisdictions.
  • Consistently Training Employees: Training employees on security protocols and how to respond during a robbery can improve overall store safety for your team and customers. A well-prepared staff can act quickly and effectively in critical situations, potentially minimizing the impact of the crime.

To learn more about how your retail store can combat ORC, contact 3SI!