Stolen AC On Facebook Marketplace Leads To Tampa Man's Arrest: HCSO

TAMPA, FL — A man faces charges after a stole air conditioning unit was found for sale on Facebook Marketplace, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Detectives investigating the air conditioner’s theft from a residential construction site in Ruskin, found a Facebook Marketplace listing matching its make and model on Tuesday.

Investigators learned that the seller, Moises Lopez, 49, is associated with another person involved in construction thefts, the sheriff’s office said.

Undercover detectives me with Lopez at his Tampa home to view the air conditioner. While there, they determined the AC unit seemed to have been removed after being installed and was unused.

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They saw a second new air conditioner in similar condition and a water heater in Lopez’s garage.

After reviewing the serial numbers from the AC units, they determined that one had been stolen from a new residential construction site in Manatee County, while the other had been taken from Hillsborough County.

A court-authorized search warrant was carried out at Lopez's residence, where detectives recovered two Carrier-brand AC units and a water heater.

Lopez was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Third Degree and Dealing in Stolen Property.

"Those who believe they can exploit hard-earned money from individuals in our community and businesses will face serious consequences. These crimes devastate our business community and local economy, and your sheriff's office is steadfast in protecting both," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Let this serve as a clear message that our detectives are committed to investigating and apprehending individuals who commit theft crimes of any magnitude and attempt to take advantage of community members."