Authorities in Aurora, Colorado have apprehended five Colombian nationals allegedly involved in a series of sophisticated home burglaries, Fox News reports. The suspects are accused of targeting nearly 20 homes, employing advanced tactics to circumvent security systems. Four suspects were apprehended in Colorado, with the fifth arrested in Ohio. All five are currently in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The suspects face multiple felony charges, including attempted first-degree burglary and conspiracy to commit second-degree burglary.
The Aurora Police Department announced the arrests on March 27, following searches at two residences. Law enforcement agencies reportedly recovered a significant amount of suspected stolen property, including cash, jewelry, and high-value clothing.
Police reports indicate the suspects ran a “complex” burglary operation, utilizing counter-surveillance methods to identify targets. They allegedly used signal jamming technology to disable home alarm systems.
Commander Paol of the Aurora Department Investigations Bureau praised the “detailed and extensive investigation” carried out by detectives.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Yesid Alexander Espinosa-Castro, 27; Freddy Giovanni Castro Garzon, 44; Yineth Karina Medina Acevedo, 29; Joseph Michud Cruz Marquez, 27; and Jhoan Sebastian Vanegas-Garcia, 26.
The arrests come amid heightened scrutiny of immigration policies under the Biden administration and their impact on local communities. Aurora, located near Denver, has faced previous attention regarding the presence of Venezuelan gang members, prompting serious concerns.
Colorado’s sanctuary policies, which limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, have also drawn criticism.
According to Fox News, ICE recently accused Aurora of non-cooperation in locating two migrants who had escaped a detention facility during a power outage. City officials refuted these claims, stating they were not informed of the escape. Both escapees have since been apprehended, including one individual suspected of ties to the violent Tren de Aragua gang.
The Aurora Police Department is collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office Organized Crime Unit. The investigation remains active, and authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Denver Crime Stoppers. Those giving tips can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $2,000.