Tampa, Florida — Florida authorities say they dismantled a large organized retail theft operation accused of moving roughly $7 million in stolen merchandise across multiple states, resulting in 14 arrests and the seizure of millions of dollars in stolen goods.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation, called “Operation D-Fence,” began in late 2025 after detectives received information about a possible fencing operation tied to stolen property. Investigators later uncovered what they described as a highly organized criminal enterprise operating throughout Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Authorities executed four search warrants earlier this month and recovered approximately $5 million in stolen merchandise, $220,000 in cash, and seven vehicles allegedly connected to the operation.
Investigators say the group targeted major retailers including Home Depot and Lowe’s, along with construction sites and storage containers. Detectives allege suspects used multiple schemes, including direct thefts, fraudulent invoices, manipulated refund systems, and thefts from construction storage units containing tools, appliances, electrical equipment, and building materials.
Officials identified a residence in Lutz, Florida, as the alleged hub of the operation, where stolen goods were sorted, stored, and redistributed for resale through online marketplaces and direct transactions. Investigators said they uncovered more than 1,800 online sales tied to the network over the past year.
Authorities identified Hoover Rengifo, 55, as the alleged leader of the organization. Those arrested now face charges including racketeering, trafficking in stolen property, money laundering, and grand theft.
Law enforcement officials said the case highlights the growing scale and sophistication of organized retail theft networks operating through online resale platforms and interstate supply chains.
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