Colombian Theft Ring Arrested in Central Florida Burglary Spree Targeting Asian Business Owners

A Colombian theft ring known as the South American Theft Group was dismantled by authorities in Central Florida after targeting Asian business owners. The group spent weeks surveilling homes and businesses, often disguising themselves as landscapers to monitor routines before committing burglaries. Their criminal activities were exposed when an Orange County Sheriff's Office drone captured two suspects breaking into a home, leading to a coordinated takedown and arrests in Osceola County. Five suspects were arrested and face charges including burglary, grand theft, and criminal mischief, with ICE detainers placed on all of them. The investigation began following a significant burglary in Hillsborough County and expanded into Orange and Osceola counties through inter-county collaboration. Stolen items recovered included luxury goods and large sums of cash, highlighting the group's impact on the local community.