2 L.A. men arrested after commercial burglary in Bloomington; they’re suspected in dozens more heists across 3 counties

Two Los Angeles men were arrested Monday, Sept. 30, and officials Tuesday said they believe they committed more than 30 burglaries of businesses in San Bernardino, Riverside and Los Angeles counties.

The men were arrested on suspicion of burglary, conspiracy and committing a felony while on bail following a series of more than 30 burglaries in those counties since August.

Deputies responded on Sept. 1 around 5:30 a.m. after a burglary at a business in the 11300 block of Cedar Avenue in Bloomington, near Jurupa Avenue and south of the 10 Freeway, according to a news release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Burglars forced open the business’ metal security screen and shattered the front glass door to enter. Deputies reviewed security footage, which showed two suspects enter the business and steal lottery tickets, alcohol and cigarettes before fleeing in a gray Tesla, the sheriff’s department said.

Deputies with the Fontana station responded to at least two other burglaries in Bloomington that involved the same suspects and vehicle, according to the sheriff’s department. The suspects stole lottery tickets, high-end alcohol, U.S. currency, ATMs and cash registers.

Investigators identified the suspects in the burglary series and learned they had been involved in additional burglaries in Victor Valley, Chino Hills, Rancho Cucamonga, Highland, Colton and Ontario.

Outside of San Bernardino County, investigators worked with law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles and Riverside counties who believed their areas experienced similar burglaries. Burglaries were reported in Temple City, Palmdale and Lancaster, among other cities.

Burglaries linked to the suspects were reported in San Bernardino County as early as Aug. 22.

On Monday, officials served search warrants at three homes – two in Los Angeles and one in Victorville – linked to the suspects and found license plates, reciprocating saws, sledgehammers and pry tools that they believe were used in the burglaries, the sheriff’s department said.

They also discovered large amounts of cash, two semi-automatic rifles – one of which was reported stolen out of Victorville — an AR-15 rifle and a 9mm handgun. Officials also found suspected stolen lottery tickets, high-end alcohol and cigarettes, a money counting machine and a Tesla, according to the sheriff’s department.

Investigators ask anyone with information to contact the Fontana sheriff’s station. Those who wish to remain anonymous should call 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or leave information at www.wetip.com