Four members of an alleged South American residential burglary crew were apprehended in connection with a series of home break-ins across Southern California, according to authorities.
The investigation began on April 22, 2026, when San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department deputies were summoned to the scene of a residential burglary in San Antonio Heights, an unincorporated Upland neighborhood, according to an SBSD news release.
“Through surveillance footage, investigative leads, and extensive information sharing between multiple law enforcement agencies, detectives identified several suspects connected to the crime,” the announcement stated.
Detectives discovered that the suspects were reportedly utilizing phony license plates, WiFi and signal jamming devices, camouflaged wireless cameras, and other burglary gear to deactivate home security systems and watch residences before breaking in and committing the crimes, deputies said.
On May 5, 2026, Ventura County Sheriff’s Office deputies detained four people in connection with an alleged burglary in Thousand Oaks. At the time, deputies claimed to have trashed a property and stolen $100,000 in goods.
According to Ventura County deputies, three of the defendants were apprehended after California Highway Patrol investigators spotted their car in the Calabasas area. When they attempted to stop the automobile, a pursuit ensued. All three criminals were apprehended after fleeing the automobile and fled on foot.
Deputies stated that the three individuals arrested at the time were identified as:
- Javier Ricardo Pulido Ramirez, 41, of Los Angeles
- Diego Fernando Paipilla Cuervo, 39, of Los Angeles
- Jesus Miguel Velez Hernandez, 35, of Simi Valley
“During that time, investigators discovered a second suspect car engaged in the burglary, which had driven south into the greater Los Angeles area, according to a Ventura County Sheriff’s Office announcement. “Through shared information between law enforcement agencies, patrol officers with the LAPD located the second suspect vehicle.”
They apprehended the remaining suspect, who has since been identified as Sergio Alejandro Paez Cuervo, 27, from Los Angeles. All four defendants were charged with house burglary and conspiracy to commit a felony, and their bail was set at $500,000 apiece.
According to San Bernardino County authorities, one more suspect has been apprehended. Akssel Cadena-Diaz, 29, has been recognized. Deputies stated all of the suspects are Colombian citizens and members of a South American domestic burglary group wanted for crimes in Southern California.
Investigators released images of some of the alleged stolen items, which included cell phones, sunglasses, luxury watches, coins, and high-end purses.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact SBSD officers at 909-356-6767 or Ventura County authorities at 800-222-8477.
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