Florida Man Arrested for Alleged Septic Tank Theft Attempts

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A Florida man named Alfio Nocifora was arrested after allegedly attempting to steal a septic tank from a construction site on two separate occasions, first using his Toyota Corolla and then a rented U-Haul truck. Surveillance footage captured Nocifora's failed attempts, which the Marion County Sheriff's Office said "went completely down the drain" as he was unable to properly load the heavy septic tank onto his vehicles.

Why it matters

Theft of construction materials and equipment is an ongoing issue that can drive up costs for contractors and developers, as well as pose safety risks if stolen items are not properly secured. This case highlights the lengths some individuals will go to steal valuable items, even using rental trucks in an attempt to conceal their crimes.

The details

According to the surveillance footage, Nocifora first tried to load the septic tank onto his Toyota Corolla, but was unable to maneuver it onto the car. He then returned with a rented U-Haul truck, loaded the septic tank and around $2,500 worth of electrical pipe, and covered the truck's license plate and identification number with tape in an apparent attempt to avoid detection. However, a detective was able to identify Nocifora, leading to his arrest in Citrus County.

• On February 23, Nocifora returned to the construction site with a rented U-Haul truck.
• Prior to that, on an unspecified date, Nocifora allegedly attempted to steal the septic tank using his Toyota Corolla.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Nocifora was charged with grand theft, unlawful use of a two-way device, and intentionally obscuring a license plate during the commission of a crime. The case will now proceed through the criminal justice system.