The FBI announced on Tuesday a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest of Alberto Pérez Elías, a Cuban national sought for his alleged involvement in a multimillion-dollar heist at a jewelry store in Cape Coral, Florida, which occurred on January 6, 2026.
The FBI's Tampa office reported that Pérez Elías, along with three other men, broke into an empty commercial space adjacent to Tio Jewelers. They smashed through the dividing wall to gain entry into the store.
Once inside, they held the manager at gunpoint, securing him with zip ties. They then forced open a safe, stealing thousands of jewelry pieces valued at over one million dollars. After the burglary, the suspects fled towards Miami.
The other three accused individuals include Ivel Sánchez Rivera, 52, identified as the getaway driver; Osmani Barrios Carrera, 37; and Yunior López Delgado, 42. All three were apprehended following the investigation, leaving Pérez Elías as the only one still at large, more than eight months post-robbery.
Pérez Elías was added to the FBI's wanted list in July 2026 under the category of additional violent crimes. The announcement of the $50,000 reward signifies an intensified effort to apprehend him, over two months after a federal arrest warrant was issued.
The federal court in the Middle District of Florida, located in Fort Myers, issued the warrant on June 24, 2026. Charges include conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, and using a firearm during a violent crime.
If convicted, Pérez Elías could face up to 20 years in federal prison, plus an additional consecutive seven years for the firearm-related charge.
Born in Cuba, the suspect is known to have connections in both Miami and Hialeah. The FBI describes him as bald, with brown eyes, standing 1.68 meters tall, and weighing approximately 68 kilograms. He has used two different birth dates: July 15, 1968, and July 12, 1972. The agency considers him armed and dangerous.
Anyone with information about his whereabouts can report it online via tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).
Frequently Asked Questions about the FBI's Efforts to Capture Alberto Pérez Elías
What is the reward for information leading to the arrest of Alberto Pérez Elías?
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information that leads to the capture of Alberto Pérez Elías.
What charges is Alberto Pérez Elías facing if captured?
Alberto Pérez Elías faces charges of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, and using a firearm during a violent crime.
How can someone report information about Alberto Pérez Elías?
Information about Alberto Pérez Elías can be reported online at tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).