Glendale PD smash teen burglary ring with arrests, but other members may be at large

Glendale, Arizona: Police have apprehended a group of teenagers suspected of orchestrating a series of residential burglaries across the Valley. The teens, whose crime spree spanned three months, are believed to be responsible for at least 46 break-ins from June through August.

Authorities described the crimes as “crimes of opportunity". The suspects would roam neighborhoods late at night, targeting unlocked cars with garage door openers. Once the teens secured the openers, they could easily gain access to homes, where they would steal electronics, weapons, and other valuables—all while homeowners were asleep.

Surveillance footage released by Glendale Police shows the teenagers methodically casing cars for garage door openers. The same footage captured a stolen vehicle used by the suspects, which ultimately led to their arrest on August 14. The arrested individuals include a 14-year-old, three 15-year-olds, and a 16-year-old, all of whom are now in custody.

Officer Moroni Mendez of the Glendale PD, expressing concern, told Arizona's Family, “It’s alarming that these young individuals are involved in such serious crimes. The fact that they were armed and prepared to protect themselves if confronted by homeowners is deeply troubling.”

The investigation revealed that the suspects would sell the stolen items. A significant number of stolen guns and other items were recovered during the arrests. Police believe the group also stole several vehicles during their crime spree.

Glendale Police are continuing their investigation and believe there may be more teens involved and additional victims yet to be identified. The arrested teens are facing multiple felony charges, though it remains unclear whether they will be prosecuted as adults.