Seven Face Charges in South American Theft Ring Bust

Seven individuals suspected of being part of a Colombian-based South American Theft Group were arrested in Scottsdale, Arizona, after a coordinated police operation with information from Burbank, California authorities. The suspects are linked to a series of residential burglaries across California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona. Police surveillance led to their arrest at a short-term rental in Scottsdale after observing two burglaries in Tempe and Mesa. Stolen property and a French Bulldog taken in a California burglary were recovered, with efforts underway to return items to their rightful owners. All suspects are facing multiple charges and are being held on $150,000 cash-only bonds. The case underscores ongoing efforts and the necessity of multi-agency collaboration to address international theft rings in the western U.S.