In the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton, nearly all individuals arrested for looting in Pinellas County, Florida, were identified as illegal migrants, according to Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. Out of 45 arrests related to looting, which included offenses like burglary and armed robbery, 41 suspects were found to be living in the U.S. unlawfully. This revelation has sparked discussions on the impact of illegal migration on community security during natural disasters.
Sheriff Gualtieri credited his team’s response, saying, “A lot of these people were in the area to take others’ properties, and our efforts prevented additional crimes.” Law enforcement questioned 196 people in connection with looting, later releasing 163 individuals who were also identified as undocumented migrants.
The Pinellas County Sheriff says that 41 out of 45 looting, robbery and burglary suspects who were arrested for allegedly targeting vulnerable Floridians after Hurricane Helene and Milton are foreign national migrants. pic.twitter.com/jtyqg7Di9P
— Andy Ngo 🏳️🌈 (@MrAndyNgo) October 27, 2024
The hurricanes resulted in widespread devastation, with Hurricane Helene responsible for at least 230 deaths and Hurricane Milton adding another 32 fatalities. Damages are estimated in the billions, leaving communities across Florida struggling to recover. Meanwhile, President Donald J. Trump offered assistance by hosting 275 linemen at his Trump National Doral Miami resort, a move aimed at supporting power restoration efforts.
Criticism has emerged surrounding FEMA’s handling of the crisis. Elon Musk, who deployed Starlink Internet service to affected areas, and Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) both accused FEMA of obstructing aid efforts. FEMA responded by confirming a temporary suspension of aid in North Carolina due to reported safety concerns for federal staff.
Really Kamala? Florida: 41 out of 45 looting and burglary suspects post-hurricane were migrants… – Revolver Newshttps://t.co/kAWtvB6ds4
— sdylan (@sdyll1) October 30, 2024
As the state continues its recovery, officials are highlighting the connection between illegal migration and post-disaster crime, calling for policies that would bolster community security during crises. Local leaders argue that tougher immigration enforcement could help ensure Florida’s communities are better protected from crime in future emergencies.
