A Miami man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he stole tens of thousands of dollars worth of marine electronics from boats across Martin County during a month-long crime spree.
The Martin County Sheriff's Office arrested 29-year-old Robert Esposito of Miami following an investigation into a series of vessel burglaries that occurred throughout July. According to deputies, Esposito targeted boats in locations ranging from Stuart to Hobe Sound, stealing approximately $60,000 worth of Garmin GPS units from numerous boat owners during the spree. The Criminal Investigation Division detectives conducted the month-long investigation that led to his arrest.
Esposito is currently facing numerous charges in connection with the burglaries. Deputies said he has been charged with 10 counts of grand theft, 8 counts of burglary to a vessel and 8 counts of traveling across county lines to commit a burglary. Authorities indicated that additional charges are expected pending further investigation into the case. The charges reflect the extensive nature of the crime spree that affected vessel owners throughout Martin County during July.
Esposito is being held in Miami on $540,000 bond. The arrest represents the conclusion of the investigation into the series of boat burglaries that impacted the boating community across multiple locations in Martin County throughout the month. The case highlights ongoing concerns about marine theft in South Florida coastal communities where boats and their expensive electronics remain vulnerable targets for criminals.