A Florida man was arrested after investigators traced a stolen radiological device to his home through a Facebook Marketplace listing, authorities confirmed. The suspect, 24-year-old Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., was taken into custody following a multi-agency investigation into the theft of a moisture density gauge valued between $10,000 and $20,000.
Recovery of the Device
State troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol recovered the device intact from a residence in Bradenton. The equipment contains Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope. Officials warned that improper handling or damage to the unit could lead to severe health complications due to radiation exposure.
Investigation Details
According to state troopers, the investigation commenced on May 26 when the FHP Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Intelligence received information regarding a private sale on social media. Investigators traced the online listing back to Benitez and arranged an undercover purchase. However, when Benitez failed to appear at the scheduled meeting time, investigators proceeded directly to his home.
From outside the property, specialized troopers deployed radiation detection equipment, which immediately triggered an industrial-level alert, confirming the presence of nuclear material inside. Members of the FHP Preventive Radiological Nuclear Detection unit located the device concealed within the house. Officials confirmed that the radioactive source remained undisturbed and secured the equipment as evidence.
Official Response
In a public statement, Dave Kerner, executive director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, commended the responding troopers for their expertise. "The Florida Highway Patrol is home to some of the most sophisticated and technically experienced criminal investigators," Kerner said. "Our Radiological and Nuclear Detection State Troopers are a vital component to our public safety mission." Kerner credited the collaborative effort among the agency's specialized units with securing the arrest. "Florida is safer as a result," he added.
Legal Implications
Under Florida law, only operators licensed through the Department of Health are permitted to possess or handle this type of specialized equipment, which is typically used in construction to analyze soil and asphalt composition. Benitez has been charged with grand theft and illegal possession of a controlled radiation device without a license.
