ICE captures South American theft ring members in Texas break-ins after probe
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FIRST ON FOX: ICE said federal agents captured members of a South American burglary ring believed to be in the U.S. illegally who were attacking families in a series of violent shootings in Texas.
The group targeted small business owners in the Lone Star State, according to the agency.
In one incident, video obtained by FOX News shows two masked men armed with handguns chasing a screaming resident around his home. It was seen that the victim was shot by the suspects.
Four suspects were federally charged in connection with the break-ins, and two were convicted.
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Gunmen were seen chasing a Texas resident during a home invasion. (Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
According to ICE, the group is believed to be members of the South American Burglary Group (SATG), an organized network of foreign nationals, primarily from South America, who travel throughout the United States targeting wealthy homes and businesses by committing burglaries and theft.
ICE said members used encrypted messaging apps, disposable phones, and pre-surveillance of neighborhoods to identify and target victims. The stolen items include high-value jewellery, luxury watches and cash.
ICE said most of the group’s members were in the U.S. illegally or remained in the country on expired visas.
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Joel Hallynson Espinal-Cantareo is an illegal immigrant from Honduras who was convicted in September and sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison, according to ICE. (HSI)
One person involved, 38-year-old Joel Hallynson Espinal-Cantareo, is an illegal immigrant from Honduras who was convicted in September of interfering with interstate commerce through robbery and sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison, according to ICE. His federal sentence will run consecutively to any pending state cases.
Investigators said Espinal-Cantareo carried out at least three shooting attacks at residences in Irving, Cedar Hill and Frisco. In these incidents, business owners were pistol-whipped, zip-tied, and forced to hand over cash and valuables.
“This 11-year sentence sends a clear message that violent crimes and threats to public safety will not be tolerated,” Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard said in a statement. he said. “Espinal-Cantareo’s actions impacted small businesses and endangered lives. This important sentence reflects the seriousness of these crimes. ICE will continue to work closely with our federal, state and local partners to protect our communities and bring violent criminals to justice.”
ICE said most of the group’s members were in the U.S. illegally or remained in the country on expired visas. (Getty Images)
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Criminal charges were filed against the three suspects after HSI submitted the federal case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Sherman. The fourth suspect, who was tried separately by the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison.
Two other cases are still pending, according to ICE.
ICE said it assigned an immigration detention officer to ensure Espinal-Cantareo is transferred to federal immigration custody when he completes his federal sentence. The agency said it would proceed with his deportation following his release from federal custody.
