
CA Burglary Ring Targeting Asian Americans Busted; 3 Arrested
Photos: San Jose Police Department
India-West News Desk
SAN JOSE, CA – San José Police Chief Paul Joseph announced on January 22, the arrests of three suspects linked to a sophisticated burglary ring that deliberately targeted Asian American households across the Bay Area. The group is believed to be responsible for 78 burglaries since June 2024, with the stolen property valued at approximately $1 million.
The arrests of Alberto Ibarra Vallejo, 25; Gonzalo Valencia Ramos, 28; and Jaime Martinez Arroyo, 46, followed months of investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies across Northern and Central California. The suspects were taken into custody on January 16 with assistance from Stockton police SWAT officers. They remain in custody without bail and are set to appear in court on February 3.

During the raids, authorities recovered 700 stolen items, including wedding rings, luxury watches, jewelry, and family heirlooms. Police also seized five firearms, three of which were confirmed stolen.
Methodical Targeting of AAPI Households
Police allege that the suspects systematically cased neighborhoods in West San José, Cupertino, Saratoga, Campbell, and Mountain View, specifically targeting Asian American households. San José Mayor Matt Mahan described the emotional toll on the community saying, “For roughly six months, our AAPI community in the West San José region has lived in fear as home after home has been broken into and residents have wondered if they were next.”
The burglars reportedly avoided large items like televisions or electronics, instead opting for high-value goods such as jewelry, cash, high-end purses, and foreign currency. items, making them prime targets.
Coordination Among Agencies Led to Arrests
Chief Joseph revealed that fragmented investigations initially hindered progress, as different agencies pursued the cases individually. The breakthrough came when a suspect was identified on a doorbell camera by Santa Clara County Sheriff’s detectives. This recognition led to a coordinated effort by multiple agencies, including the San José Police Department, to track the suspects and execute search warrants.
“Extensive surveillance and search warrants conducted by San José PD led us to uncover additional suspects involved in this prolific burglary operation,” Joseph said.
Authorities continue to investigate the possibility of additional crew members and expect the number of linked burglaries to rise.