Florida Deputies Arrest Two Jacksonville Women Accused of Stealing Nearly 160 Cans of Baby Formula in Multi-Store Martin County Theft Spree
MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA — Two women from Jacksonville were arrested Tuesday night after deputies say they carried out a multi-stop retail theft spree across Martin County, stealing hundreds of cans of baby formula valued at approximately $8,000, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the case highlights a growing statewide and national trend involving organized baby formula theft, driven by the product’s high resale value and steady demand.
How the Theft Spree Unfolded
Investigators say the incident began earlier in the evening in the City of Stuart, where police received reports of two suspicious women abruptly leaving a retail store without paying for merchandise.
That information was quickly relayed to Martin County deputies, who began searching for the suspects’ vehicle as reports from additional locations came in.
Suspects Detained Outside Walgreens
Deputies later located the suspects’ vehicle parked outside a Walgreens near Salerno Road and Kanner Highway.
According to authorities, detectives observed Summer Bryant, 36, and Andrea Williams, 38, exiting the store carrying bags filled with baby formula. When deputies made contact, the women were taken into custody without incident. A search of the vehicle uncovered additional stolen merchandise, bringing the total to approximately 160 cans of baby formula.
Value and Scope of the Theft
Law enforcement officials estimate the stolen formula was worth around $8,000, a figure that reflects the rising street and resale value of infant formula products.
Deputies noted that organized retail theft groups frequently target baby formula, stealing large quantities from multiple stores across different jurisdictions in a short period of time.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Both women were arrested and transported to the Martin County Jail, where they were charged with multiple theft-related offenses.
Investigators say the case remains ongoing, as detectives work to determine whether Bryant and Williams may be linked to similar thefts elsewhere in Florida or neighboring areas. Authorities have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation continues.
A Growing Problem Across Florida
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office noted that baby formula theft has become increasingly common across Florida and nationwide, with retailers and law enforcement reporting organized theft rings targeting high-demand items. Officials continue to urge retailers and the public to report suspicious behavior promptly, allowing law enforcement to coordinate responses across jurisdictions.
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