In December 2024, a residence in Cascade Township, Michigan was burglarized while the homeowners were away at work. Investigators determined that the incident was part of a larger operation involving a group known as a “South American Theft Group” (SATG), which is believed to have coordinated burglaries across multiple states.
Authorities found that members of this group engaged in extensive planning before committing their crimes. They researched business owners online, identified home addresses, monitored daily routines, and sometimes placed GPS tracking devices on vehicles to follow potential victims. Detectives obtained digital evidence connecting the suspects not only to the Cascade Township case but also to numerous other incidents nationwide.
The investigation used search warrants, cellphone data analysis, surveillance techniques, and collaboration with federal partners to identify several co-conspirators based in other states. The group has been linked to at least 19 confirmed burglaries across the country with losses estimated at over $1.6 million. Many targeted victims were Asian and Middle Eastern immigrant business owners.
Law enforcement agencies from Michigan, Wisconsin, New Jersey, and California worked together during the investigation. Several suspects were arrested both within these states and at short-term rental properties allegedly used for criminal activities.
A total of ten individuals have been taken into custody in connection with this organized theft ring. Some defendants have pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to transporting stolen property across state lines. In December 2025, two people received federal prison sentences and were ordered to pay restitution; others remain in custody or have already been sentenced as proceedings continue.
Kent County Sheriff’s Office Undersheriff Bryan Muir commented on the significance of this case: “This investigation demonstrates the growing sophistication of organized burglary groups operating across state lines and highlights the importance of coordinated law enforcement partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels.” He added: “I am proud of our team for their hard work and relentlessness in the pursuit of justice for the victims”.
This remains one of Kent County’s largest multi-state burglary investigations in recent years.
For those who may have information regarding criminal activity in Kent County, authorities encourage contacting the Kent County Sheriff’s Office by phone or through their online tip portal at https://www.kentcountymi.gov/tips/.
