Press Release
DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office
The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office is committed to protecting our local businesses, including unique industries like aquaculture, which contribute to DeSoto County’s economic and ecological landscape.
On January 13, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of suspicious activity at a fish farm in DeSoto County. Two suspects, Alex Figueredo and Kaleb Harmon, were apprehended and charged with trespassing, burglary, and grand theft of a commercially farmed animal. Since the arrest, both suspects have been released by the court on bond. The investigation revealed the suspects were knowingly violating the law, entering private property, and attempting to take an exotic Arapaima fish, a species regulated under Florida law. The fish was safely returned back to the property manager.
Agriculture and aquaculture are vital to DeSoto County, and we will not tolerate crimes that threaten the livelihood of our residents. To prevent further incidents and support the safety of local businesses, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office will continuously patrol our agricultural areas and work with our communities who report suspicious activity to us. We encourage community members to report suspicious activity immediately.