Man Arrested in $1.6 Million Liquor Heist in Hillsborough County

After reading the headline, you’re probably thinking this might be another trailer for the next Fast and Furious movie. A man was arrested this past week by the HCSO who was allegedly connected to the massive $1.6 million liquor heist in Hillsborough County. 

Over the span of 3 days back in July of 2023, nearly $1.6 million of liquor  was removed from a warehouse in Gibsonton, FL. A group of suspects allegedly entered the distribution facility and loaded the cargo into the trailers of at least 2 different semis.  This might be one of the biggest heists to take place in Tamp Bay, but could this be the biggest liquor heist in Hillsborough county? 

According to the HCSO, the detectives learned that the liquor was moved to South Florida where the goods were being stashed. Investigators found and seized a semi, two trailers and a car that were used in the heist. Working with the FHP (Florida Highway Patrol) as well as local law enforcement agencies, detectives found a storage facility in Hialeah where the liquor was stashed. Thankfully, the liquor was found and is now returned to its owners.

According to the HCSO press release, Sheriff Chad Chronister said, “I commend our dedicated detectives for their tireless efforts in swiftly apprehending the individual responsible for this audacious million-dollar liquor theft. The recovery of over $1.5 million worth of stolen liquor is a testament to their unwavering commitment to justice. As the investigation unfolds, we anticipate further arrests, ensuring that all involved parties are brought to justice."

There is still an ongoing investigation into this massive liquor heist, but officials arrested Miguel Rivas on October 27, 2023. Rivas is 33 years old and deputies say they are still looking for the second suspect. Rivas has been charged with 'Burglary More than $1,000 in Damage as well as Grand Theft of $100,000 or More'. 

Officials have issued an arrest warrant for Ruth Cardero, 54, for her part in the theft. If you have any information about Cardero, contact HCSO at 813-247-8200.

The off-season is finally behind us, and now all eyes are right where they should be, focused squarely on the Buccaneers to see what they can do without Tom Brady. So far, not bad! The Buccaneers are off to a 2-0 start before their game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday, September 25. These are our favorite Tampa bars to watch the Buccaneers play when we can't make it to the game.

You don’t want to miss a game. You want to hang out with your friends, but maybe your TV just isn’t big enough…or maybe you don’t want your buddies getting sloppy and stupid inside your house.
That means you’re looking for the best places in Tampa that aren’t your living room to watch the Bucs. You want to hook up with your buddies, grab a beer, grab a burger or wings, choose the TV screen with the best viewing angle, and kick back for three hours or so.

If you’re a big-time fan looking for big-time fun watching the Bucs emerge as a team to keep an eye on this season, we’ve got a selection of some of the best places to watch them play whether it’s home or away.
Just check out this list of the best places to enjoy a Bucs game from some of the coolest bars and restaurants in Tampa.

For a longer list, click here.

Located on Kennedy near downtown, Ducky’s is a spacious sports bar with craft cocktails, upscale bar food, mini-bowling alleys & an outdoor patio. Really friendly, with great food and drinks - and a bowling alley. More here.

Located near USF, North 30th encourages you to grab a beer and one of their many signature sandwiches, and enjoy the Bucs on any one of their 40+ big screen TVs!  Check it out here.

The legendary Press Box on South Dale Mabry is South Tampa's original sports emporium, serving up sports for 45 years!  With 42 screens, plenty of beer and good old bar food, it's the place where not only fans, but athletes also go to watch the Bucs and pretty much every other sporting event, too.  See what it's all about here.

Looking for a more upscale vibe?  Maybe you want to take a date to watch the Bucs instead of hanging with your friends.  Check out the tapas, sandwiches and flatbreads at The Soho Backyard on South Armenia.  Who says you can't mix romance and football?  See what it's all about here.

Irish 31's Hyde Park location is the premier Irish pub in South Tampa, and one of the best places to catch a Bucs game because you have your choice of sitting inside or outside on their corner patio - a perfect place to bring your pup.  Whether you're just grabbing a cold brew, or making a selection off the check-inspired full menu, you'll enjoy the atmosphere along with the food and drink as much as you enjoy watching the Bucs.  Take a look here.