Today defendant Michael Anthony Zeff, 38, of Fort Myers, was adjudicated guilty and sentenced to 15 years in prison for Burglary of a Dwelling, Second Degree Grand Theft, and Possession of a Controlled Substance. He was sentenced as a Prison Releasee Reoffender.
In April 2021, the defendant broke into a Lee County home and stole approximately 40 pieces of jewelry with a value of $70,000. He also took three checkbooks and $25 in change. A neighbor saw the defendant running from an area near the victim’s home, get in a truck, and leave. The defendant was caught due to a traffic stop by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies searched the vehicle and found the jewelry in a book bag on the passenger seat as well as throughout the vehicle. In the center console law enforcement found the checkbooks. There was also a crowbar and gloves.
Assistant State Attorney Bryce Becker prosecuted the case.
Samantha Syoen – Communications Director, State Attorney’s Office