Eighteen workers at JFK Airport were arrested on Wednesday for stealing over 100,000 mini-bottles of alcohol and selling them on the underground market to local liquor stores, according to CNN. The workers allegedly pilfered the alcohol from LSG Sky Chefs, a provider of food and beverages to American Airlines. Fifteen of the accused were LSG employees, but three were security guards hired by private contractors. The guards are charged with overlooking the thefts after receiving bribes.
The ring took place over several months, producing an estimated $750,000 in retail value. Law enforcement sources said the ring revolved around Domingo Duran, a retired LSG Sky Chef employee. More than 50,000 mini-bottles of alcohol and $34,000 in cash were discovered in Duran’s home. Duran faces 15 years in prison.