FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) – Broward Sheriff’s Office detectives said a group of pawn shop employees carried out a multi-year racketeering operation that led to millions of dollars in losses for major retailers across Florida.
Seven suspects were arrested Tuesday as part of the investigation into U.S. Pawn, which has storefronts and warehouses in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale. Two others were previously arrested.
Detectives say the suspects paid thieves—often referred to as “boosters”—for stolen merchandise including over-the-counter medications, electronics, tools, and health and beauty products. Many items were still in sealed boxes from stores such as CVS, Walgreens, Publix, Home Depot and Walmart. The goods were then resold on online marketplaces…