Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/313059
On May 14, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services notified Jim Smith, owner of Jim's Pawn at 6526 B, S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, that his pawnbro- ker's license was being revoked following an investigation by the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, the office has reported. "Smith was the central figure in Operation Recommit, an investigation that resulted in the arrest of six members of an organized crime ring," a news release explains. "Smith knowingly bought stolen property through his pawn shop and directed crime ring mem- bers to bring products to him by giving them itemized lists," the release continues. I n i t s A d m i n i s t r a t i v e C o m p l a i n t , t h e Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services noted Smith had "admitted to this illicit activity" as well as to "providing cash to known drug users in exchange for sexual favors," the release points out. "Smith can no longer conduct new transac- tions and must contact current customers to give them the opportunity to either pick up their items or advise him if they relinquish ownership," the release says. Any Jim's Pawn customers who need to contact Smith can do so by calling 923-7171, the release adds. Smith has 21 days to request an administrative hear- ing with the Department of Agriculture and Pawn shop owner James Smith was served on May 14 with an administrative complaint from the state. Video shot on the scene is available at this link. Video courtesy of the Sheriff's Office PAWN SHOP LICENSE REVOKED BY THE STATE AFTER INVESTIGATION CRIME BLOTTER