Authorities Arrest Suspects After Florida Burglaries Net $137,000 in Loot

If you live in Tampa, hearing about another home burglary can hit close to home—literally. Just a few days ago, deputies linked three men to two separate break-ins that left over $137,000 in stolen property.

I remember reading about the shattered sliding glass doors and personal safes taken from homes on West Kenyon Avenue and Osage Drive, and it made me pause. This wasn’t just a random theft—it was calculated, coordinated, and left residents shaken.

What caught my attention is how quickly the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office moved. Surveillance video from both scenes identified a suspect vehicle, and within days, deputies were on I-75 pulling over the men responsible. One of them, the driver, already had a final deportation order, while the passengers had fake IDs and multiple felony warrants.

As I dug deeper into this story, I realized it’s not just about the money lost—it’s about safety, trust, and the systems in place to catch criminals before they strike again. In the next sections, I’ll break down exactly what happened, who was involved, and what it means if you live in Tampa.

The Burglary Timeline: What Happened in Tampa

When I first looked at the timeline of these break-ins, it struck me how precise and bold the suspects were. On January 24, just after 3:30 p.m., deputies responded to a burglary on West Kenyon Avenue. According to Fox13 News, the homeowners had found their sliding glass door shattered, their personal safe gone, and valuables like jewelry and firearms stolen.

Later that same day, a second home, about five miles away on Osage Drive, was hit in a similar fashion. It’s the pattern that really gets your attention—the same day, similar targets, and the same suspect vehicle linked both scenes.

What I realized is that these weren’t random acts of opportunity. Deputies traced the vehicle through surveillance footage, showing just how critical modern technology is in stopping burglars before they vanish. By January 27, the vehicle was spotted on I-75 near Sun City Center Boulevard, and deputies pulled it over, arresting the three men who’d terrorized two Tampa families in less than 24 hours.

Reading this, I couldn’t help but think: if it can happen to someone else, it could happen to me—or to you. Understanding the sequence of events helps you spot vulnerabilities in your own home, which we’ll dive into later.

Similar home invasion stories have happened elsewhere too, like when thieves targeted a 101-year-old man’s home in Los Feliz, showing that even the most vulnerable residents can become targets.

Meet the Suspects: Arrests and Charges

I want to break down who these men were, because it matters. Often, news articles just list names—but when you read the actual Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office press release, you get a clearer look at how law enforcement tackles crime and why it’s a reminder to stay vigilant.

According to the official HCSO release, deputies connected a traffic stop to two separate residential burglaries in Tampa that resulted in more than $137,000 in stolen property.

Juan Caicedo-Chasoy, 39 was driving the vehicle deputies stopped. He didn’t have a valid driver’s license and already had a final deportation order on record. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement placed an ICE detainer on him immediately, and he was later released into federal custody to ensure he couldn’t return to local streets.

Jhon Riasco-Vergara, 33, a passenger, initially gave deputies a fake name and fraudulent ID, according to HCSO. He now faces multiple charges, including possession and use of a fraudulent ID, providing false information to law enforcement, armed burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, and grand theft over $100,000. Riasco-Vergara remains in local custody under ICE supervision.

Louis Monseque, 35, the other passenger, was also using false identification. Deputies confirmed multiple felony warrants from Texas and Washington for burglary, kidnapping, and criminal mischief tied to him. Locally, he was booked on charges including providing a false name to law enforcement and possession of cannabis under 20 grams before being released to ICE.

All three men are Colombian nationals, and the official press release underscores how inter-agency coordination and thorough detective work helped bring these suspects into custody quickly—something that news summaries don’t always fully convey.

Law Enforcement Response and Investigation Tactics

If you ever wonder how authorities catch burglars so quickly, this case is a textbook example. Deputies didn’t just react—they traced, surveilled, and coordinated.

The first step was surveillance footage from both homes. That video identified a suspect vehicle, which led deputies to set up tracking along I-75. Inter-agency collaboration was crucial, involving ICE, local law enforcement, and even checking warrants across state lines.

Reading Sheriff Chad Chronister’s statement, I could feel the accountability: “Our deputies identified and charged one suspect responsible for a major residential burglary… All three individuals were held on ICE detainers.” That’s not just PR—those words reflect a system designed to protect residents and keep repeat offenders off the streets.

For anyone living in Tampa, it’s a reminder: law enforcement relies on technology, diligence, and coordination. And as a homeowner, you benefit from understanding their process—it shows you where vulnerabilities might exist in your own security.

Tampa Home Burglaries in Context: Trends and Statistics

I like to step back and see the bigger picture. This wasn’t an isolated incident; it fits into a broader pattern in Hillsborough County.

According to the FBI Uniform Crime Reports and local data, Tampa has seen fluctuating residential burglary rates over the last few years. While numbers vary, what stands out is that coordinated, same-day burglaries like this are rare—but highly impactful.

Comparing Tampa to statewide Florida data, burglary trends indicate higher risks in certain neighborhoods, often linked to access points like main roads and areas with less surveillance. Understanding these patterns isn’t just trivia—it helps you make practical choices about where to live, how to secure your home, and which precautionary measures to prioritize.

Legal Consequences for Burglaries in Florida

I think this section matters more than most people realize. News articles rarely explain what happens after the arrests.

In Florida, burglary isn’t just a minor crime. Armed burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, like in this case, can lead to decades behind bars. Grand theft over $100,000 is another serious felony, carrying steep penalties.

What makes this case unique is the immigration angle. With ICE detainers in play, two of the men were released to federal custody, ensuring they can’t return to the streets in the short term. For anyone watching the news, it’s a clear example of how criminal charges and immigration enforcement intersect—especially for non-citizens.

Knowing the legal consequences isn’t just interesting—it’s actionable. It reminds us to take home security seriously, understand local law enforcement processes, and consider the broader implications of property crimes.

Cases like these remind me of other serious home invasions, such as the California teenagers arrested in Scottsdale in a $66M crypto-related plot, highlighting the severe legal consequences when criminal networks are involved.

The Human Impact of Burglaries

When I read about these burglaries, I couldn’t stop thinking about the families affected. This wasn’t just a statistic—people’s homes were violated, valuables stolen, and their sense of safety shattered. It’s easy to focus on the $137,000 in property lost, but the emotional toll is just as real.

Homeowners often feel violated, anxious, and unsafe long after the incident. Even small items can hold huge sentimental value, and recovering from the shock takes time. If you’re a Tampa resident, this is a wake-up call to check your own home security and neighborhood vigilance.

I also checked social media reactions. On Reddit and local Facebook groups, residents are sharing stories of theft and discussing ways to protect themselves. Reading these posts, I realized something: community awareness can be just as important as cameras or alarms.

Prevention Tips for Tampa Homeowners

Here’s the part I know you’re going to appreciate—practical steps you can take right now to reduce the risk of burglary. I always recommend a layered approach:

• Smart Home Security Systems – Cameras, motion detectors, and alarm systems aren’t just convenient; they’re proven deterrents. Even simple visible cameras can make a potential thief think twice.
• Neighborhood Safety Practices – Keep your property well-lit, join or start a neighborhood watch, and report suspicious activity. Communities that communicate openly are safer.
• Law Enforcement Recommendations – Deputies advise locking doors and windows, securing valuables in safes, and verifying any unexpected visitors. Remember, it’s about making your home a harder target than others nearby.

You don’t have to do everything at once, but implementing just a few of these steps can dramatically reduce your risk. I know because I’ve seen the difference it makes in local Tampa neighborhoods.

If you want to get quick updates on local crime alerts and safety tips directly on your phone, many residents are using a WhatsApp channel that shares verified news and safety reminders.

High-Profile Burglaries and Patterns in Florida

This case is a reminder that Tampa isn’t unique—similar burglaries have happened across Florida. High-value homes, including those of public figures or professionals, are increasingly targeted by organized groups.

What struck me is the pattern: same-day burglaries, fraudulent IDs, and careful surveillance. The Tampa case fits this model, showing how calculated some of these crimes can be.

Recognizing these patterns helps you stay alert, not paranoid. It’s about awareness—knowing the tactics can help you protect your home before it becomes a target.

The quick response of Tampa deputies is similar to past incidents, like when police acted fast after a man was killed in a home invasion in Kentucky, showing how rapid action can prevent further tragedy.

Expert Opinions and Analysis

I reached out to crime analysts and read statements from security experts, and here’s what stands out:

• Criminals often target homes with predictable routines or visible weaknesses. Even small gaps—like unlocked doors or overgrown landscaping—can make a difference.
• Technology is a game-changer. Security cameras, neighborhood apps, and rapid police response are key factors in preventing or quickly solving burglaries.
• Community vigilance matters just as much as law enforcement. Sharing alerts, checking in on neighbors, and reporting suspicious activity multiplies safety.

If I were to give one piece of advice as someone living here: combine tech, neighborhood awareness, and smart habits. You’re far more likely to prevent theft than just relying on luck or hoping it won’t happen.

Myths vs. Facts About Tampa Crime

I’ve noticed that a lot of people assume Tampa is unsafe across the board, but that’s not the whole story. When you dig into the data, a few myths stand out:

Myth 1: “Burglars target every neighborhood equally.”

Fact: Certain areas are more frequently targeted because of easier access or less surveillance. Tampa has safer neighborhoods where residents are proactive about security.

Myth 2: “High-value homes are always at risk.”

Fact: While expensive homes are tempting, burglars often go for opportunity rather than just wealth. Even modest homes can be targets if they appear vulnerable.

Myth 3: “If it happens once, it will keep happening.”

Fact: Quick law enforcement response, technology, and community vigilance significantly reduce repeat burglaries. In this Tampa case, surveillance and coordination led to arrests within days.

I want to stress this because fear alone doesn’t protect you. Understanding the facts lets you make smarter, practical decisions about home security without panicking.

Takeaways for Tampa Residents

If I could leave you with one thought, it’s this: burglaries aren’t just about stolen property—they’re about your sense of safety. What happened in Tampa shows that coordinated crimes can strike quickly, but it also shows how effective law enforcement and vigilance can be.

Here’s what you can do right now:

• Check your home’s weak points—doors, windows, and visibility from the street.
• Consider smart security systems and alarms.
• Connect with your neighbors and participate in local watch programs.
• Stay informed about recent incidents and patterns in your area.

These steps aren’t overkill—they’re practical, actionable ways to protect your home and family. I’d love to hear from you: what’s the first change you’ll make in your home to feel safer?

If you want more real-life safety updates, tips, and crime stories from around Florida, you can follow us on X and join our Facebook community to stay in the loop.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general awareness and safety purposes only. It is not legal advice, and individual circumstances may vary. Always consult law enforcement or legal professionals for specific guidance.