MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — Authorities in Martin County announced the arrest of 11 individuals on Thursday in connection with an organized crime ring accused of stealing nearly 6,000 pounds of saw palmetto berries — used in dietary supplements — from local ranchers.
The berries, valued at around $8,000, were recovered after a 911 call led deputies to the suspects, who were later arrested at a hotel in Stuart.
MCSO officials say the suspects, allegedly from Immokalee, kept detailed ledgers of their hauls and earnings.
“Our ranchers are tired of being victimized here in Martin County,” said MCSO Sheriff John Budensiek. “We thought this year, between the penalties being harder and the immigration force being ramped up, that these individuals would be weary about stealing berries across the state but that has not been the case.”
Despite a 2024 Florida law making illegal berry harvesting a third-degree felony, thefts continue.
Local ranchers say they’re tired of being targeted, as saw palmetto remains a highly sought-after crop due to its medicinal use.
Authorities said ten suspects remain jailed, with eight facing immigration detainers.
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