Four suspects have been caught in a home burglary after the victim and Tempe police released surveillance video of the theft.
Tempe police say detectives immediately recognized 18-year-old Elio Eduardo Macias in the video. Macias had two warrants for his arrest in connection with two other burglaries.
On September 2, Macias drove three others to a home in south Tempe where they reportedly kicked open the front door, yelling “Phoenix police, get on the ground.”
The home was empty as the suspects allegedly took jewelry and electronics valued at $5,000, as well as priceless family heirlooms.
It was the mail carrier who saw the busted down door and called the police to report the crime.
After his arrest, Macias told police that he took the items to a location in Phoenix where they were sold.
He also reportedly told police that he became “paranoid” after seeing the video in the media.
Police say three of the four suspects are gang members and all are now in custody.
Macias is being held on a $100,000 bond for burglary.
