The Brief
- The Florida Highway Patrol arrested a man after he attempted to sell a possibly radioactive device on Facebook Marketplace.
- FHP said Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., 24, agreed to meet with undercover investigators, but Benitez failed to show up to the meeting.
- FHP scanned Benitez’s residence for radioactive levels and safely recovered the Moisture Density Gauge.
BRADENTON, Fla. – The Florida Highway Patrol arrested a man after an investigation into the theft of a Moisture Density Gauge, valued between $10,000 and $20,000.
FHP said it began an investigation on May 26, after FHP’s Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Intelligence (BCII) received a tip of a private party sale through Facebook Marketplace of the Moisture Density Gauge, which was listed by Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., 24, in Bradenton.
What is a Moisture Density Gauge?
A Moisture Density Gauge is a device used to measure the density and inner structure of material. It is usually used to determine moisture levels of soil and asphalt. The controlled device carries an internal radiological isotope of CS-137.
If the device is damaged or handled improperly, it can potentially expose individuals to radiation that can cause serious health issues.…