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| Photo Credit: Florida Highway Patrol |
FHP Investigation Uncovers Radioactive Device Listed for Sale Online
BRADENTON, Fla. — A Bradenton man is facing criminal charges after Florida Highway Patrol investigators say he attempted to sell a regulated radiological device containing radioactive material through Facebook Marketplace.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, 24-year-old Marco Antonio Benitez Jr. was arrested on May 28, 2026, following an investigation into the theft and unlawful possession of a Moisture Density Gauge, a specialized piece of equipment valued between $10,000 and $20,000.
Authorities say the device contains an internal radioactive isotope known as Cesium-137 (CS-137), making it a tightly regulated piece of equipment that can only be possessed and operated by licensed individuals.
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| Photo Credit: Florida Highway Patrol |
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| Photo Credit: Florida Highway Patrol |
The investigation began on May 26, 2026, after the Florida Highway Patrol's Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Intelligence (BCII) received information that the device was being offered for sale on Facebook Marketplace.
Investigators from BCII, the Criminal Interdiction Unit (CIU), and the Preventative Radiological Nuclear Detection (PRND) Unit worked together to track down the seller and arranged a meeting to purchase the device.
When the seller failed to appear at the agreed-upon meeting location, troopers responded to Benitez's residence in Bradenton.
Using specialized detection equipment from outside the home, troopers reportedly received an industrial-level radiation alert, indicating the presence of radioactive material inside the residence.
Investigators later located the Moisture Density Gauge inside the home and confirmed that the radioactive source remained intact and had not been damaged.
Officials said the device was safely seized and placed into evidence and safekeeping.
According to FHP, Moisture Density Gauges are commonly used in construction and engineering projects to measure soil density, moisture content, and the internal structure of materials such as asphalt. If damaged or improperly handled, the radioactive source inside can potentially expose people to harmful radiation.
Law enforcement officials also noted that such devices are heavily regulated because of the potential public safety risks associated with their misuse.
"The Florida Highway Patrol is home to some of the most sophisticated and technically experienced criminal investigators. Our Radiological and Nuclear Detection State Troopers are a vital component to our public safety mission," said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. "Their efforts, along with the efforts of BCII and CIU Troopers, led to this important arrest and Florida is safer as a result."
Benitez was charged with:
Grand Theft ($10,000–$20,000)
Possession of a Controlled Radiation Device Without a License
No injuries or radiation exposures were reported during the investigation.
The case remains under investigation.
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