In a major break against the growing threat of transnational burglary crews, Glendale police arrested four Colombian nationals this week on suspicion of operating a “burglary tourism” ring targeting wealthy neighborhoods across Los Angeles. In this article we talk about Burglary Tourists’ Arrested in LA County.
The Suspected Burglar Tourists
According to Patch, those taken into custody late Monday night were identified as Bryan Martinez Vargas, 28; Jose Antonio Velasquez, 28; Edison Arley Pinzon Fandino, 27; and Luis Carlos Moreno, 29. They were arrested on conspiracy to commit burglary charges after a police sergeant spotted their vehicle driving suspiciously.
Surveillance Devices and Burglary Tools
A search of the suspects’ car revealed disturbing tools of their alleged trade – including a camouflaged video surveillance system, jewelry boxes, a hard hat and safety vest possibly used as a ruse to case homes, and even a WiFi jamming device to disable security systems.
Freshly dug dirt in a neighborhood planter pointed to the suspects likely planting the covert camera to monitor residents’ schedules and strike when homes were unoccupied.
Part of a Growing Criminal Trend
Monday’s arrests come just weeks after Vargas and another Colombian man, 45-year-old William Guanume, were apprehended following a residential burglary and pursuit where burglary tools and a jamming device were recovered.
Authorities state these are textbook examples of “burglary tourism” – a troubling transnational crime trend where crews from South America enter the U.S. as tourists specifically to burglarize affluent communities before fleeing with the stolen cash and valuables.
The lucrative criminal enterprises have been increasingly active in recent months across Southern California’s wealthiest enclaves according to the Los Angeles Times.
Cops Vow to Keep Cracking Down
Glendale police are asking the public to report any suspicious activity that could be linked to residential burglaries by calling their hotline at 818-548-4911. As evidenced by this week’s arrests, law enforcement is committed to identifying and prosecuting burglary tourist crews looking to victimize local communities.
With millions in valuables and cash at stake, the battle against these sophisticated, international theft rings operating in LA will likely be an ongoing priority for authorities. Monday’s bust was a notable success, but the threat remains. I sincerely hope you find this “Burglary Tourists’ Arrested in LA County – What’s Behind Their Arrest?” article helpful.
Ruby Arora is the lead writer at LosAngelesDailyNews.net, where she brings her extensive expertise in journalism and communications to cover Los Angeles’ vibrant culture and breaking news. Ruby holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and has a track record of delivering insightful and accurate stories. Connect with her on Instagram and YouTube for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.
