FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — Two people are under arrest after Fresno police say they were involved in a series of retail burglaries at several stores across the city.
Police served a search warrant to a Fresno home Thursday as part of the investigation.
They say the suspects were part of a group that would steal vehicles and then use them to burglarize commercial businesses.
The stolen vehicles were sometimes used to ram into storefronts to create an opening, allowing suspects to enter the businesses and steal merchandise and cash.
“The crew was stealing vehicles and then burglarizing commercial businesses,” police said. “It was having an impact on individuals whose only means of transportation was their vehicle that was stolen while they were sleeping at night.”
Business owners were also heavily affected by the crimes.
“They were being heavily impacted by the damage that was being done and also the property that was being taken,” police said.
[RELATED] Detectives recover stolen goods, 2 unregistered guns in Lowe’s theft probe in Fresno
Miguel Vidrio & Shawn Goodwin arrested for burglary ring across Fresno. (Photo: Fresno Police Department)
Police say 28-year-old Shawn Goodwin and 38-year-old Miguel Vidrio are now facing burglary-related charges.
During another investigation, detectives recovered thousands of dollars’ worth of stolen merchandise.
The property was linked to several thefts at stores across Fresno, including Lululemon, Bath & Body Works, Target and Walgreens.
In several of the cases, the same two woman were identified as the suspects.
They were later tracked down and identified as 25-year old Teiah Fitzgerald and 24-year old Mia Keobounleuang.
Both were also arrested on Thursday.
Police are reminding residents to take precautions to help prevent vehicle theft and other crimes.
“Be aware of your surroundings,” police said. “Make sure you secure your vehicle, have working alarm systems, and a working surveillance system because that can be a deterrent.”
Investigators say security systems can also help law enforcement identify suspects and gather evidence after a crime.
The investigation remains ongoing.