A burglary ring accused of stealing over $4 million worth of jewelry, primarily from South Asian households across 25 communities, has been dismantled by the Massachusetts State Police. The investigation, spanning nine months, culminated in the indictment of four individuals, including two brothers, on 95 counts related to unarmed burglary and breaking and entering during daytime hours with intent to commit a felony.
According to authorities, the Providence-based theft crew specifically targeted South Asian homes under the belief that they would possess valuable jewelry. Their alleged spree, spanning from July 2018 to March 2024, resulted in the theft of various items, including diamonds and gems valued at $75,000 each, as well as gold bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and cash. In some instances, the gang even made off with heavy safes containing valuable jewelry.
Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan emphasized the sophistication of the defendants, highlighting their methodical approach to targeting victims based on ethnicity and gathering information to strike when families were away. The perpetrators took measures to conceal their identities, evade alarms, and minimize cell phone usage before, during, and after the burglaries, even employing Wi-Fi jammers.
Lt. Col. Mark Cyr, commander of the Massachusetts State Police Division of Homeland Security, condemned the brazen actions of the theft crew, emphasizing the emotional and cultural impact of their crimes on affected families. He underscored the collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies to dismantle such criminal networks and ensure that such activities are not tolerated within communities.
The successful conclusion of this investigation reflects the dedication of law enforcement partners to combat complex criminal operations. By apprehending those responsible for these burglaries, authorities aim to send a clear message that such criminal behavior will face consequences and that efforts to safeguard communities from such threats remain steadfast.