Independent Newsmedia
The Paradise Valley Police Department held a public meeting at Town Hall Feb. 13 to update residents about the recent burglary trend in and around the Valley while providing tips about improving home security.
The discussion, attended by approximately 165 people, provided information about the South American Theft Groups (SATG), which have recently targeted cities across Phoenix, according to a press release. The organized crime groups are also referred to as Chilean Nationals.
While such activities are not new, it has become more prevalent in big cities across the country. They have operated mainly in the Los Angeles and New York City areas over the past decade.
In 2017–18, Ivan Romo, Federal Bureau of Investigation senior special agent, noticed an escalation in Chilean Nationals committing crimes in the United States, PVPD presented. Chile had recently been added to the ESTA program, an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under a visa. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival.
These criminal groups often obtain fake identities upon entering the United States and engage in thefts targeting cash, jewelry and easily transportable items but avoid firearms. In addition to residences, they’re likely to target commercial buildings, retail and vehicles. Items are shipped back to Chile or Los Angeles which appears to be the domestic base of operations, according to PVPD’s presentation.
Each group acts as its own cell and there is no command structure. They tend to avoid confrontations and operate covertly under the cover of nightfall. Suspects have been known to throw rocks at homes to make sure properties are unoccupied.
PVPD reported there has been some success in identifying suspects and out-of-state agencies have recovered stolen property, but challenges persist. One obstacle is the rapidity with which these groups operate, often evading law enforcement response times. Moreover, delays in alarm reporting contribute to difficulties in apprehending them swiftly, the release stated.
Also, separate groups only stay in the Valley for a short time frame and may travel back and forth to California.
“Unfortunately, Paradise Valley is not alone in this uptick in crime,” PVPD Chief Freeman Carney said. “While we are increasing patrols and increasing active surveillance, we firmly believe that there are common sense steps residents can take to improve their home security. We are all in this together.”
Town residents are encouraged to take these steps to improve home security:
- Install motion-activated lighting: Illuminate walkways and dark areas around your house.
- Activate your alarm: Use it both when you’re home and away.
- Lock all doors and windows: Ensure they are securely locked.
- Landscaping matters: Adjust to reduce potential hiding spots.
- Stay vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings.
- If you see something suspicious, report it.
In an emergency, residents are encouraged to call 911. For more information on preventing burglaries, contact the Community Resource Officer at 480-348-3567 or email CRO@paradisevalleyaz.gov.
