A man has been apprehended in connection with the theft of multiple bottles of wine from the loading area of a Publix supermarket in North Miami, an incident that took place in early March. Authorities have identified the suspect as Lenny Cesar González, a 44-year-old resident of Miami-Dade.
Investigators allege that González stole dozens of wine bottles over several days by entering a restricted employee area at the Publix located at 12800 Biscayne Blvd. Security camera footage captured him entering the loading dock between March 8 and March 13.
On March 8, during one of the documented thefts, he was seen carrying away 10 bags filled with goods, including a total of 43 bottles of wine from brands such as Merlot, Tailor Made, and Jack Peak, with an estimated value of $796. Furthermore, the police report describes González as "a known shoplifter at various businesses in the area."
Before his arrest, González was involved in a verbal altercation with a manager at another Publix location at 12855 NE Sixth Ave. He was subsequently detained and taken to the North Miami Police Department for questioning. He faces charges of burglary of an occupied structure, grand theft, and dealing in stolen property.
The police report, accessed by Local 10, also reveals that a background check on the accused showed multiple previous convictions for petty theft. As of Thursday morning, González remained in custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with his bail status listed as "to be set," according to online jail records.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Wine Theft Incident
What charges is Lenny Cesar González facing?
Lenny Cesar González is facing charges of burglary of an occupied structure, grand theft, and dealing in stolen property.
What was the estimated value of the stolen wine?
The estimated value of the stolen wine was approximately $796.
Where is Lenny Cesar González currently being held?
As of the latest reports, Lenny Cesar González is being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.