Deputies recover stolen "toys" during drug arrests | Crime

AVON PARK, Florida -- Detectives with the Highlands County Sheriff's Office say a drug bust has lead to the discovery of nearly 250 suspected items of potentially stolen property.

On Feb. 8, deputies arrested Robert Harvey, 46, Christina Harvey, 42, and Kristin Shepard, 40 on various drug related charges at a home on Palmer Avenue. In the process of the arrest, deputies say they discovered what appeared to be a treasure trove of stolen property.

Among the items seized were computers, laptops, firearms, cell phones, GPS units, video games, I-Pads, cameras, speakers, jewelry, coins, wallets, tools and even an air conditioning unit. A Honda motorcycle was also recovered from the scene.

While many items have been confirmed as stolen property, detectives say they're still comparing other items with previous burglary and theft reports.

"This investigation was huge in identifying other offenders who are using drugs to steal and trade stolen property from burglaries to support their substance abuse habits," said Sheriff Susan Benton.

As the investigation continues, the Sheriff's Office says additional charges related to the property will be made on a case by case basis. Anyone with information on the stolen items can call the Highlands County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit at 402-7250. Tipsters can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477).