Stuart, Florida, January 24, 2026
In Stuart, Florida, two women from Jacksonville, Summer Bryant and Andrea Williams, were arrested for stealing $8,000 worth of baby formula. This incident highlights a growing trend of baby formula theft due to its high resale value. The suspects were initially arrested for similar crimes just days prior and are suspected to belong to a larger theft ring. Law enforcement is working to address this issue and prevent further incidents.
Stuart, Florida – Two Jacksonville Women Arrested for Stealing $8,000 in Baby Formula
Two women from Jacksonville were arrested in Stuart, Florida, on January 21, 2026, for allegedly stealing approximately $8,000 worth of baby formula. The suspects, identified as 36-year-old Summer Bryant and 38-year-old Andrea Williams, are believed to be part of a statewide theft ring targeting baby formula due to its high resale value and demand.
Details of the Arrest
The thefts began when Stuart Police received reports of two suspicious women who abruptly left a retail store. Deputies located the suspects’ vehicle at a Walgreens near the intersection of Salerno Road and Kanner Highway. As the women exited the store carrying bags filled with stolen baby formula, additional stolen formula was found inside their vehicle. In total, investigators recovered about 160 cans of baby formula, valued at approximately $8,000.
Background on Baby Formula Theft
Baby formula theft has become more common due to the product’s high resale value and demand. Suspects often travel across jurisdictions and target multiple stores in a short period. In this case, both women had been arrested a few days earlier in Alachua County for the same crime, bonded out, and continued stealing. Authorities anticipate identifying more stores that are victims and are working with Alachua County to revoke their bonds to stop this crime trend.
Legal Implications
Both women were arrested, transported to the Martin County Jail, and charged with felony retail theft. The financial loss to retailers exceeds $70,000, and Publix has noted that this is their most prolific baby formula theft to date. These charges each carry a maximum sentence of 30 years, along with fines of up to $10,000. This case will be handled by the Office of Statewide Prosecution.
Previous Incidents
In a similar case, Kenneth Jones of Palm Beach County was charged with two counts of first-degree felony organized retail theft for stealing massive amounts of baby formula. Between November 2024 and May 2025, Jones carried out over 50 thefts of baby formula from Publix, Target, and Walmart locations across Broward and Palm Beach counties. The total estimated loss to retailers was over $70,000. These charges each carry a maximum sentence of 30 years, along with fines up to $10,000. This case was handled by the Office of Statewide Prosecution.
Conclusion
The arrest of Bryant and Williams highlights the ongoing issue of baby formula theft in Florida. Authorities continue to investigate and work to prevent such crimes, aiming to protect both consumers and retailers from significant financial losses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who were the suspects arrested in Stuart, Florida?
The suspects were identified as 36-year-old Summer Bryant and 38-year-old Andrea Williams, both from Jacksonville, Florida.
What were the charges against the suspects?
Both women were charged with felony retail theft, with each charge carrying a maximum sentence of 30 years and fines up to $10,000.
How much baby formula was stolen?
Investigators recovered about 160 cans of baby formula, valued at approximately $8,000.
Is this part of a larger trend?
Yes, baby formula theft has become more common due to its high resale value and demand, with suspects often targeting multiple stores across jurisdictions.
What is the legal process following such arrests?
The case will be handled by the Office of Statewide Prosecution, with potential sentences of up to 30 years and fines up to $10,000 for each charge.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspects | Summer Bryant (36) and Andrea Williams (38), both from Jacksonville, Florida |
| Location of Arrest | Stuart, Florida |
| Date of Arrest | January 21, 2026 |
| Stolen Goods | Approximately 160 cans of baby formula, valued at $8,000 |
| Charges | Felony retail theft, each carrying a maximum sentence of 30 years and fines up to $10,000 |
| Previous Arrests | Both women had been arrested a few days earlier in Alachua County for the same crime |
| Legal Handling | Case to be handled by the Office of Statewide Prosecution |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
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