Former Pemica Employee Arrested for X-ray Machine Theft

Danny Ernandez was taken into custody after allegedly stealing a $20,000 security device.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Financial Crime

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing an isolated security gateway frame, symbolizing a breach in institutional security controls.
Miami police arrested 39-year-old Danny Ernandez on charges of stealing a $20,000 security X-ray machine from his employer, Pemica. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Miami police have arrested 39-year-old Danny Ernandez for the theft of a security X-ray machine from his employer, Pemica. The equipment, valued at $20,000, has since been returned.

Why it matters

The incident highlights vulnerabilities in workplace security, as internal controls were circumvented by an employee who allegedly disconnected surveillance systems before removing the equipment.

Danny Ernandez faces a third-degree felony grand theft charge and has been released on a $2,500 bond. The case is currently moving through the court system following his September 23, 2026, appearance.

The players

Danny Ernandez

He is a 39-year-old former employee of Pemica who faces felony charges for the theft of company property.

Pemica

This is the company located in Glenvar Heights from which the security X-ray machine was stolen.

Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center

This is the Miami-Dade County facility where the suspect was booked following his arrest.

The details

Ernandez allegedly stole the machine from the company's Glenvar Heights location on August 18, 2026. While company surveillance was disabled during the act, investigators successfully utilized footage from neighboring businesses to link the suspect to the theft.

Timeline

  1. August 18, 2026: The theft of the X-ray machine occurred.

  2. September 22, 2026, 10:55 a.m.: Ernandez was arrested at MDSO Kendall Station.

  3. September 22, 2026, 1:10 p.m.: Ernandez was booked at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

  4. September 23, 2026: Ernandez made his initial court appearance.

Legal Context

This case follows the specific valuation thresholds established by the Florida Statutes Section 812.014 for third-degree felony prosecution. Such charges are standard in the jurisdiction for the theft of property valued between $10,000 and $20,000.

Local businesses in the Glenvar Heights area may consider reviewing internal security protocols regarding camera access after this breach. No specific safety advisories have been issued for the public at this time.

The takeaway

Workplace security systems are only effective if they remain active and monitored by independent personnel. Employers are encouraged to implement restricted access protocols to prevent internal theft of high-value equipment.

Further reading

Learn more about local investigations in Miami Financial Crime.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Wplg.

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Should employees face criminal charges for taking company equipment without prior approval?