Manatee County, Fla. – In a coordinated effort with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and neighboring sheriff’s offices, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of eight suspects tied to a widespread mail‑theft scheme targeting local houses of worship.

Who was arrested

The individuals named in the press release are Yucmercy Espinosa Obregon, Luis Miguel Sanchez Santos, Lisaida Castro Gonzalez, Ismery Ferrer Alonso, Luis Enrique Valdes Camejo, Dayanis Leon Hernandez, Duvier Hernandez Canizarez, and Isidro Gonzalez Gomez. They face charges of organized scheme to defraud, grand theft, uttering a forged instrument, and criminal use of personal identification.

How the scheme operated

According to detectives, the suspects intercepted envelopes containing checks mailed by congregants to their churches. Using mobile‑banking apps, they deposited the checks into personal accounts, attempting to avoid detection. The investigation began in December 2025 after a pastor at Harvest United Methodist Church in Lakewood Ranch reported a sudden drop in incoming mail.

Scope of the theft

Manatee County officials confirmed 66 victims and 107 stolen checks, amounting to more than $72,000 in losses. An additional seven victims and seven checks remain unverified, representing roughly $1,800 in potential losses. The ring’s reach extended beyond the county, with 268 stolen checks and nearly $194,000 in losses identified across at least 17 religious communities in the region.

Ongoing investigation

Authorities have not released the identities of seven other suspects who remain under active arrest warrants; some are believed to be in the Miami area, and one is reportedly in Cuba. The names of the 16 other victim churches have also not been disclosed.

What residents can do

The sheriff’s office urges anyone sending donations or payments by mail to monitor their checking accounts closely. Individuals who suspect they may have fallen victim to the scheme are encouraged to contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office immediately.

Multi‑agency effort

The operation continues to involve the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, underscoring the collaborative approach to protecting the financial contributions of faith communities.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.