BRADENTON, Fla. (CBS12) — A Bradenton man is behind bars on Wednesday after investigators say he tried to sell a stolen device containing radioactive material, something authorities say could have posed serious risks if handled incorrectly.
Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., 24, was arrested May 28 following an investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol into a missing moisture density gauge. According to the news release, the device, worth between $10,000 and $20,000, is commonly used in construction to measure soil and asphalt conditions. It also contains a small amount of radioactive material.
That is what made the case especially concerning for investigators.
The investigation began on May 26 after troopers received a tip that the equipment had been listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace. Investigators say the listing was tied to Benitez, and they arranged to meet with him to purchase the device.
When Benitez did not show up for the meet, FHP troopers took the investigation a step further by going to his home in Bradenton.
Marco Antonio Benitez Jr., 24, was arrested May 28 following an investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol into a missing moisture density gauge. According to the news release, the device, worth between $10,000 and $20,000, is commonly used in construction to measure soil and asphalt conditions. It also contains a small amount of radioactive material. (FHP)
From outside the residence, specialized units conducted a radiation detection scan, which quickly confirmed their suspicions. Troopers said it received a strong alert indicating radioactive material was inside.
A specialized radiological detection team later located the device in the home. Officials say it was still intact and the radioactive source had not been damaged. That detail is important because improper handling could expose people to harmful radiation.
Authorities say moisture density gauges like this are strictly regulated and can only legally be used or possessed by licensed individuals through the Florida Department of Health.
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“These are not items just anyone can have,” officials have stressed, pointing to the risks of accidental exposure and potential misuse.
The device was safely seized and taken into custody as evidence.
State officials also highlighted the coordination between multiple investigative units, including the Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Intelligence, the Criminal Interdiction Unit and the Preventative Radiological Nuclear Detection team.
FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner said the case highlights the advanced capabilities of FHP’s specialized teams. Their work, he said, helped prevent a potentially dangerous situation and ensured the device was recovered safely.
Benitez is now facing charges of grand theft and possession of a controlled radiation device without a license. Authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the public.