Undercover agents with the Marion County Sheriff's Office say they have busted a theft ring.

Investigators say members of the ring would steal items from area Walmart stores then return the merchandise in exchange for Walmart gift cards.

The Sheriff’s Office said Jay Parvadia, 45, who owns the BP Food Mart located at 11960 SE Highway 301 in Belleview, would buy the gift cards for less than their value and then resell them.

Detectives began an undercover operation and over the course of several days were able to infiltrate the crime ring.

Investigators say they confiscated merchandise and over $10,000 in cash.

Parvadia was arrested and charged with four counts of dealing in organized stolen property.