From September to October 2024, officers responded to 28 separate burglaries at newly constructed homes nearing completion. These incidents occurred throughout the City of Frederick on weekends when construction crews were off for multiple days. The suspects primarily targeted large appliances, including water heaters, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, and stoves.
The Major Crimes Unit launched an investigation, reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence. Detectives identified a pattern suggesting the suspects used rental trucks to commit the burglaries and transport the stolen appliances for resale. Working with the rental company, investigators identified three potential suspects residing in the Frederick area.
Following multiple search and seizure warrants, detectives linked the suspects to the burglarized homes. As a result, all three have been charged with multiple counts of theft and conspiracy to commit a theft scheme. The District Court Commissioner issued a criminal summons for each suspect to appear in court.
Suspects Charged:
Gabriel Ernesto Cruz-Romero (DOB: 11/13/2005) – Frederick, MDSamuel Enrique Diaz-Pedreanez (DOB: 08/30/2005) – Frederick, MDJaylin Elijah Matthews (DOB: 01/10/2005) – Frederick, MD
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Frederick Police Department at 301-600-2102 or submit tips anonymously by calling 301-600-TIPS (8477), emailing fpdcrimetip@frederickmdpolice.org, or texting 240-674-TIPS (8477).
Case #: 2024-088021Incident Type: Construction Site BurglariesAuthor of Release: D/Sgt. Jonathan ShatlockPIO Contact: Samantha Long slong@frederickmdpolice.org