A Venezuelan gang member sobs after arrest in a massive Florida liquor store heist operation, revealing the extent of the Tren de Aragua gang’s criminal enterprise across Central Florida.
At a Glance
- Five Tren de Aragua gang members were arrested for robbing dozens of liquor stores across central Florida, stealing over $30,000 worth of high-end liquor
- Ramon Jesus Carpintero-Luna was caught on camera crying during police interrogation following his arrest for a $3,200 Sam’s Club theft
- All suspects are illegal immigrants from Venezuela with ICE detainers placed on them
- The gang, nicknamed the “Scotch Bandits,” faces first-degree felony robbery charges with possible additional racketeering charges
Venezuelan Gang’s Florida Crime Spree Ends in Tears
Five members of the notorious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua have been arrested in Florida after executing a series of liquor store robberies that resulted in over $30,000 in losses. The group, dubbed the “Scotch Bandits” by authorities, is linked to more than three dozen thefts across central Florida targeting high-end liquor from retailers including Publix, Walmart, and Sam’s Club. Their most recent heist involved stealing $3,200 worth of liquor from a Sam’s Club in Lakeland, during which they injured a female employee.
The gang’s crime spree came to an end when Ramon Jesus Carpintero-Luna and four other members were apprehended following an investigation that began in October. Police reports indicate the suspects had been terrorizing central Florida stores, often using shopping carts as weapons and threatening staff. When captured, the 26-year-old Carpintero-Luna’s tough exterior crumbled as he was recorded sobbing during police interrogation, a stark contrast to the gang’s violent reputation.
Failed Getaway and Lavish Lifestyle
The group’s downfall began when they attempted to flee from the Sam’s Club robbery in a silver Ford Focus. When the vehicle became disabled, they abandoned it and attempted to escape on foot before calling an Uber. Investigators searching the abandoned car discovered stolen liquor, cellphones, and a passport, providing crucial evidence that led to their eventual arrests. Two suspects were apprehended in Osceola County, while Carpintero-Luna and two others were tracked down by Polk County detectives.
Social media investigations revealed the suspects living lavishly, flaunting expensive Buchanan Scotch whiskey in photos. Police confirmed that two of the suspects, identified as Benavides and Charle, are confirmed Tren de Aragua members, while the others are associates. All five are in the United States illegally from Venezuela and have extensive criminal histories including drug possession, resisting arrest, robbery with a firearm, aggravated assault, and domestic violence.
Legal Consequences and Law Enforcement Response
The gang members now face serious legal consequences, with robbery charges upgraded to first-degree felonies due to gang enhancements. Police have also indicated plans to add charges for being part of an organized theft ring, with potential racketeering charges pending as the investigation continues across multiple jurisdictions in Central Florida. All suspects have been placed under ICE detainers, signaling potential deportation proceedings once their criminal cases are resolved.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd has been vocal about the gang’s presence in Central Florida and their immigration status. “Life as he knew it is over. Is he crying because we can’t steal from Americans anymore? Is he crying because he can’t rob people in the middle of the night anymore? Is he crying because he can’t rip off high-end liquor? This is the end of the road for him and his companions,” said Sheriff Judd. The sheriff also highlighted concerns about the gang’s broader impact, stating, “They are tormenting and terrorizing and stealing and robbing and murdering people.”
The Growing Threat of Tren de Aragua
The arrests highlight the growing concern about Tren de Aragua’s expanding presence in the United States. Originally formed in a Venezuelan prison, the gang has been spreading across Latin America and into the US in recent years. Law enforcement officials have identified the gang’s involvement in various criminal enterprises, including retail theft, robbery, human trafficking, and violent crimes. The Florida arrests represent just one operation against what authorities describe as an increasingly problematic criminal organization exploiting weaknesses in border security.
For Carpintero-Luna, whose tearful interview has now been made public, the consequences may include deportation to El Salvador as part of a policy targeting gang members. His dramatic change in demeanor from violent gang member to sobbing detainee underscores the reality these criminals face when finally apprehended by American law enforcement. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full extent of the gang’s operations and ensure all members face appropriate charges for their reign of terror in Florida’s retail establishments.
