Burglars Arrested in Sierra Madre

(Photo – SMPD)

On Friday, May 12, 2023, at approximately 5:00 pm, an attempted burglary occurred in the 700 block of Auburn Ave in Sierra Madre.

By News Desk

The crime was captured on surveillance camera, depicting four suspects with face coverings/masks, and wearing gloves, attempting to enter a residence via a rear glass door. They were startled by the alarm or barking dog and fled in a white, newer model, 4-door, Kia sedan.

Four days later, a Sierra Madre Police Officer observed a suspicious vehicle, and activity in the 700 Block of Auburn Ave. Based on the Officer’s training and knowledge of the prior attempted burglary, the Officer conducted an investigative stop. All three occupants were detained pending an investigation. None of the occupants were in possession of any form of identification. Further investigation revealed black hooded jackets, 3 sets of gloves, 3 black balaclava style face-masks, and a center punch tool used to break glass. Based on the totality of the circumstances, and the suspects’ inconsistent statements,  they were arrested for Attempted Residential Burglary. The suspects are from the South Los Angeles area and have an extensive criminal history for burglary. Two of the suspects had outstanding warrants.

Sierra Madre Police warns residents that, as the weather warms up, be sure to remain vigilant, lock your windows and doors when no one is home, and set your alarm.

The investigation is ongoing and it is unknown if both incidents are related at this time. The District Attorney’s Office filed one count each for 664/459 PC Attempted Residential Burglary

Anyone with information on these incidents may contact Sierra Madre Detective Nelson Ascano at (626) 355-1414 or leave information on Crime Stoppers at lacrimestoppers.org.