This browser does not support the Video element.
3 men sentenced in GPS-tracking burglary ring
Three men have been sentenced for their roles in a burglary ring that used GPS trackers to target victims in King and Snohomish counties. Prosecutors say the group is tied to dozens of break-ins.
KING COUNTY, Wash. - A judge sentenced three men Monday for their participation in an international burglary ring that stalked and robbed Asian and East Indian families across western Washington.
International ring targeted local families
What we know:
Washington Ramos Caicedo, Deivinso Eduardo Arboleda Lerma, and Jimmy Abigail Villatora Perdomo admitted to being part of a sophisticated crime ring responsible for hundreds of burglaries.
The group’s tactics involved waiting at grocery stores to identify victims, attaching GPS tracking devices to their vehicles, and following them home to carry out robberies. State prosecutors tied the three defendants to two dozen break-ins.
During the sentencing hearing, all three men used a translator to apologize for their actions. Despite the apologies, the judge characterized the crimes as part of a traumatic pattern of targeting specific communities.
Ring camera video of one of the burglaries the trio was involved in from January 24, 2024.
Sentencing sparks courtroom debate
What they're saying:
The sentencing hearing was marked by tension between the state and the defense. Prosecutors questioned whether the men considered the lasting trauma they caused, while defense attorneys argued that the state was "grandstanding" by claiming the defendants lacked remorse.
"Just because somebody has a lack of judgment on a day doesn't mean that individual is not redeemable," said one of the defense attorneys while pushing for leniency.
However, the judge ultimately handed down significant prison terms. Ramos Caicedo and Arboleda Lerma each received sentences of more than five years behind bars, while Villatora Perdomo received a minimum sentence of four years.
What's next:
The legal process will continue with a future restitution hearing. Prosecutors noted that with at least two dozen victims and tens of thousands of dollars in stolen property, the final restitution price is expected to be high.
MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE
Homeowner shoots suspect during home invasion in Kent
Seattle police arrest felon after Capitol Hill bike dispute sparks gunfire
Skydiving Kirkland woman finds 'freedom' from quadriplegia, breaks record
Renton police boost patrols at park following recent shootings
2 motorcyclists killed at same spot 1 week apart in Pierce County
To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter.
Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news.
The Source: Information in this story came from the Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office and previous FOX 13 Seattle reporting.