Florida Man Arrested After Stealing $1.6 Million Worth Of Liquor

mugshot for man who stole $1.5 million in liquor

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office

No matter how thirsty you are, let this be a warning as one Florida man finds himself in a boozy bind after stealing $1.6 million worth of liquor.

After a long day, I can understand how one may reach for a beer or two. But 33 year-old Miguel Angel Artiles Rivas reached for a whole lot more than that. It's reported that the theft took place between July 7-July 10. Rivas was part of a group of people who entered a liquor distribution warehouse in Gibsonton. They weren't going in for a tour or just to take a look around. According to a press release by the HCSO, over the 3 days the group stole about $1.6 million in liquor. To do so, they used at least two semi trucks.

It was the collaboration of the Florida Highway Patrol along with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies that put an end to this spirited heist. Not only were they able to track down the trucks used in the theft. But they were also able to locate the storage facility where the liquor was being kept in Hialeah. The stolen liquor was recovered and returned.

Rivas was arrested.

For stealing the liquor, this Florida man was charged with Burglary More than $1,000.00 Damage and Grand Theft $100,000 or More.

There is an arrest warrant out for 54 year-old Ruth Melly Cardero, as she was also involved in the theft. If you have any information on her whereabouts, you're encouraged contact HCSO at 813-247-8200.

Here Are The Top Hard Seltzers For Fall 2023

Seltzers have really taken off over the last few years and if you're looking for a new one to try, here are the top hard seltzers for fall 2023.

I've been a fan of the hard seltzers pretty much since they came out. They're my go-to for a beach day and when I'm sitting on one of the many Sanibel beaches, there's nothing more refreshing. I do have a few faves, but the Vizzy's, High Noon's and the Truly Tropical's are my mains. The flavors are great, not too sweet and don't have that weird sand paper mouth feel that some of them have. It's not just me who enjoys them. In recent years, hard seltzers have experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity. There seem to be new brands and flavors constantly solidifying their status as a dominant player in the alcoholic beverage industry.

Hard seltzers meteoric rise can be attributed to several factors.

First, hard seltzers are known for their refreshing, low-calorie, and low-sugar characteristics. For those reasons, health-conscious consumers looking for a guilt-free indulgence can find it in a hard seltzer. The wide array of flavors and a generally low alcohol content make them a versatile choice for different tastes and occasions. The convenience of the canned packaging goes great with outdoor activities and being able to take on the go.

Maybe you're looking to try something new, or just want to know what others are drinking. We previously reported on the top hard seltzers for summer. And a new study by YouGov shows us the top hard seltzers for fall 2023. You can check out the full list here. Below are the top 10.

10. WHITE CLAW ICED TEA MANGO

I like iced tea. And I like mango. I haven't tried this yet, but based on the combo here, I probably should.

9. TOPO CHICO

I have bought the variety pack in the past and like the flavors. If you like Topo Chico sparkling water, you'll like these hard seltzers.

8. COORS SELTZER

I haven't even heard of these and it sounds like they may be discontinued in the US. But they're described as "Crisp and perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness to elevate the tropical notes of a ripe, freshly sliced mango." Sounds good to me!

7. TRULY HARD SELTZER

Solid brand for hard seltzers. Pretty much every flavor I've tried I've enjoyed.

6. CORONA HARD SELTZER

I haven't tried these yet, but the flavors sound great. From blackberry citrus and strawberry kiwi to blueberry acai and raspberry lemon, I think I'll take one of each!

5. BLUE MOON LIGHT SKY

Interesting that this is considered a hard seltzer and not a beer. I like Blue Moon, so I thought this would just be a lighter version, but this one doesn't do it for me.

4. WHITE CLAW HARD SELTZER

Ain't no laws when you're drinking Claws! The OG comes in at #4.

3. TRULY PASSIONFRUIT

Big fan of Truly. Any of the tropical flavors are perfect for a beach day.

2. SMIRNOFF SPIKED SPARKLING SELTZER

These are another I'll have to add to my list. There are 8 different flavors, all with zero sugar and only 90 calories.

1. MIKE'S HARD LEMONADE SELTZER PINEAPPLE

I've had plenty of Mike's Hard Lemonade in my day, but never the seltzer. Add pineapple in there, it has to be good. Being #1 on the list is a great reason to try it!

Florida Florida Man

MarijaEditor

Marija is a morning show host on WXKB/B1039 and midday host on WRXK/96KRock. She loves to write about food, travel, and things to do around the state of Florida.