A collaborative effort between Orange and Osceola county deputies has led to the arrest of five individuals, described as Colombian nationals, who are linked to a string of home and business burglaries in Central Florida, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. The ClickOrlando detailed the charges against the group, who allegedly targeted residences belonging to business owners during their work hours and resulted in charges including burglary of a dwelling, grand theft third degree, and criminal mischief.
The suspects—29-year-old Camilo Casallas Gomez, 43-year-old Miguel Escobar Guerrero, 27-year-old Guiovanni Marin Bernal, 32-year-old Angie Hernandez Baquero, and 35-year-old Jeimmy Andrea Moreno Cuellar—were reported to be part of a sophisticated operation that spanned several western states, although not limited to they are believed to have connections to dozens of nationwide burglaries, the deputies shared their findings following an extensive surveillance and investigation collaboration to dismantle the suspected crime ring. According to coverage by WESH, two of the suspects currently have ICE deportation warrants, and the local authorities are in discussions with ICE to assess potential state immigration charges.
Key details surrounding the arrest indicate that on the evening of February 21st, the group initiated their illegal activities by kicking in the door of an apartment near Universal Boulevard and Sand Lake Road, only to be apprehended later at another complex close to Vineland and Conroy Roads—the collective actions of three suspect vehicles were actively being monitored before the bust, with the capture being a testament to the diligence of the two sheriff's offices in their joint operation.
As the investigation continues, more charges may be added, with new evidence and connections still being uncovered.
