6 Juveniles Arrested in San Jose Burglary Spree — Cars Used as 'Battering Rams'

In a decisive crackdown, the San Jose Police Department (SJPD) arrested seven suspects, including six juveniles, for their involvement in 26 commercial burglaries that took place between March 2023 and August 2023. Many of the burglaries targeted "smoke shop" type businesses, according to an SJPD press release.

The investigation revealed a pattern in the suspects' strategies to carry out the heinous crimes. They utilized stolen Kia or Hyundai model vehicles to collide with the exteriors of the businesses, inflicting massive damage to the entrances and breaching the structures. Once the businesses were breached, the suspects proceeded to steal merchandise and hastily flee the scene in their stolen vehicles. The gang is believed to be responsible for an unspecified number of additional commercial burglaries outside the city of San Jose.

Following the investigation, the SJPD obtained arrest and search warrants for the juvenile suspects. On August 30, 2023, the Covert Response Unit and Special Operations Division arrested the suspects in San José. Two firearms and evidence related to the burglaries were discovered during searches conducted at several residences. The juvenile suspects were subsequently booked into Santa Clara County Juvenile Hall on burglary and firearm charges.

The investigation also identified an adult suspect, Vincent Loredo, who was arrested and booked into Santa Clara County Jail on firearm, narcotic, and child endangerment charges. SJPD took possession of firearms as evidence, alongside stolen cars.

(SJPD)

In a statement issued by San Jose Police Department Chief Anthony Mata, he expressed his commitment towards enforcing the law and getting justice for the affected businesses. He also mentioned the importance of finding solutions to keep youth from becoming entangled in the criminal justice system.

Although the police department has made progress in this case, anyone with any information or surveillance video regarding the commercial burglaries is encouraged to contact Detective Gach #4338 of the San Jose Police Department Burglary Unit at [email protected] or 408-277-4521. Tips can be submitted anonymously by using the P3TIPS mobile app or by calling the tip line at (408) 947-STOP. Information can also be submitted on the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program website, and those submitting information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.