Florida airport employee accused of stealing $16,000 worth of luggage

Airlines working at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport in Florida The subcontractor said Thursday that it had been arrested on suspicion of stealing luggage and items from passengers totaling up to $16,000. 

The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office reported that the arrest followed an investigation into missing belongings and luggage from a traveler. Giovanni De Luca, 19, of Mary Esther faces two Grand Theft cases. 

Passengers who traveled in July reported their suitcases never reached their final destination, according to the Sheriff's Office. The woman said it contained items worth over $1,600. An Apple AirTag tracking device in the bag showed the location to be Mary Esther's Kathy Court, the sheriff's office said. They claimed jewelry and other items were stolen from their luggage. 

Sheriff's OfficeNear Cathy Court employees who lived in Investigators held a "consensual contact" with De Luca on Wednesday, where they entered his home and recovered the items that went missing on Tuesday, the sheriff's office said. 

De Luca admitted to combing a missing suitcase in July to remove an AirTag, but items have not yet been removed. He has recovered, the sheriff's office reports. 

"These arrests demonstrate good teamwork by the airport security unit, investigators and the airport to identify and hold accountable those responsible for these thefts. It's an example," Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aiden said in a statement.