Among the 45 individuals arrested for various offenses in Pinellas County, which includes Clearwater and St. Petersburg on Florida's west coast, following the passage of hurricanes Helene and Milton, there were 41 who were not U.S. citizens, including some Cubans.
Although the total number of nationals from the Caribbean island was not disclosed, Sheriff Bob Gualtieri confirmed that Hondurans, Venezuelans, Colombians, and Mexicans, among others, were also arrested.
According to the sheriff, the illegal immigrants were arrested for allegedly looting and defrauding victims.
During a press conference, the official recalled that following the evacuation orders due to the passage of the two cyclonic systems, agents patrolled the area where more than 500,000 residents live.
When they left, Gualtieri said he assured the community that his patrol agents would monitor "those who wanted to cause more havoc" along the Pinellas coast.
In anticipation of the imminent arrival of Hurricane Milton in mid-month, Pinellas County authorities issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents in Zones A, B, and C, as well as for all existing mobile homes in the county.
In that county alone, emergency teams rescued 430 people trapped in a residential complex.
The destruction in the area has been significant, prompting the sheriff to warn, "Do not come to Pinellas County to loot these storm-devastated communities. Do not take advantage of people who are trying to recover, because if you do, you will go to jail on multiple felony charges."
What do you think?
COMMENTFiled under:
