An international theft ring with origins in South America has reportedly set its sights on high-end homes throughout the Phoenix area, leading to the recent arrest of three suspects. Phoenix police apprehended Sue Ellen Gutierrez Saez, 20, Johan Salvo Alacon, 21, and Manuel Eduardo Fuentes Gomez, 25, who have been accused of stealing $3 million in cash, jewelry, and other valuable items, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix.
Authorities state that the suspects are part of a larger transnational South American criminal organization engaged in burglary, fraud, and trafficking of stolen goods. Over the past year, there have been 111 reported incidents in the region, often taking place from Friday to Sunday during dinner time. The accused trio were found to be in the United States illegally from Chile. According to the same report, these thefts span multiple affluent locales including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria.
The method of operation typically involves selecting homes next to golf courses or open areas for easier, undetected access. The criminals employ technology to jam home surveillance systems during their intrusion. One of the burglaries on Feb. 9 involved the theft of guns, jewelry, and money valuing approximately $33,000 from a single residence, as noted in court documentation obtained by AZ Family.
Meanwhile, Scottsdale police are working in collaboration with other Valley departments, bolstered by a spate of break-ins believed to be connected to a national trend involving South American theft groups (SATG). This alliance of law enforcement is piecing together clues, including security footage and forensic evidence, with the hope that ongoing surveillance operations will lead to more arrests. Peoria police officer Kristopher Babros emphasized the high-value nature of the stolen items, saying, "These high-end burglaries are lots of cash, lots of jewelry, purses, high dollar value items that are being taken." In light of the concerning incidents, local residents, such as Nick Beyette have expressed their alarm, highlighting the unexpected nature of such organized crime within their community.
As investigations continue, police departments across the affected areas are urging residents to maintain vigilance, keeping security systems active and securing all points of entry to their homes. The Paradise Valley Police Department has also recommended that valuable items be securely stored and has offered to conduct home security reviews for interested residents. Statements from law enforcement agencies emphasize collective community efforts and the importance of reporting suspicious activity to improve the chances of apprehending those responsible for this brazen crime spree.
