Baltimore County Police Arrest Five Suspects Connected to South American Theft Group

March 12, 2024

Detectives with the Baltimore County Burglary Unit have charged five adult males believed to be part of a South American Theft Group (SATG).

Suspects:

  • 20-year-old Gabriel Matamala-Ponce
  • 21-year-old Thomas Crisosto-Araya
  • 22-year-old Jorge Gatica-Vergara
  • 23-year-old Luis Oyanedel-Valenzuela
  • 27-year-old Gabriel Miranda-Gonzalez

On February 3, 2024, officers responded to the 2300 block of Tufton Springs Ln., 21136, at approximately 6:45 p.m., following a reported burglary in progress. Officers located the suspects in a vehicle attempting to flee the area. All five subjects were taken into custody. Through a follow-up investigation, detectives have connected the suspects to four other residential burglaries in Baltimore County along with cases in North Carolina, Alabama, and Oklahoma.

All arrestees remain held without bond at the Baltimore County Detention Center, charged with first-degree burglary and other burglary-related charges.

The Baltimore County Police Department reminds residents to be aware and offers the following preventive measures:

Safety Measures:

  • Install surveillance cameras on or around your home and business
  • Motion sensor lighting on the front and back of a home will help deter break-ins
  • Consider having a home or business alarm system installed
  • Keep your car locked while at work and secure your registration
  • Be cognizant of any cars in the neighborhood that aren’t normally there
  • Be aware of anyone who might be following you home
  • Give thought to how you secure valuables in your house
  • Contact your local precinct’s Community Outreach Team to conduct a residential or business security survey.

Most importantly, if you are victimized, immediately report it to police by calling 911.

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