In a surprising turn of events, three Cuban nationals were apprehended by police while attempting to steal nearly a ton of avocados from a farm located in the southwest region of Miami-Dade County. Yuniesky León Fiallo, aged 32, Reniel Torres Fiallo, aged 36, and Elio Manuel Núñez Núñez, aged 28, now face charges of third-degree grand theft, trespassing on agricultural property, and causing property damage, as outlined in the arrest reports.
The incident unfolded on Monday night at a 30-acre avocado orchard situated near Southwest 232nd Street and 202nd Avenue, as reported by local media outlets. Officers from Miami-Dade Police Department's specialized unit focusing on agricultural and environmental crimes were on patrol in the vicinity when they noticed flashlight beams flickering within the fenced-off area, which prominently displayed no trespassing signs.
Swift Police Action Thwarts Avocado Heist
Upon spotting the unauthorized activity, the officers called for backup and set up a perimeter around the orchard. During their search, they located the three suspects hiding in different locations among the trees and promptly took them into custody. Additionally, they discovered approximately 1,000 pounds of avocados, valued at around $1,000, that had been illegally harvested and stacked on the ground, ready for transport.
The suspects also caused minor damage to the property by cutting through a section of the fence to gain entry, with repair costs estimated at less than $200, according to the police report. Each of the men has since posted a $5,150 bond, as reported by Telemundo51.
Increased Security Amid Rising Agricultural Crime
In response to a surge in agricultural thefts within Miami-Dade County, particularly during peak harvest times, authorities have ramped up surveillance efforts in rural and farming areas. This case follows a similar incident last October when two Cuban individuals were arrested for stealing refrigerated trucks loaded with frozen chicken in the same county.