Two suspects have been apprehended for mail theft after being tracked using an AirTag locator device.
The incident unfolded on August 19, 2024, when deputies responded to a theft report at the Los Alamos Post Office.
This innovative use of technology highlights the potential of modern devices in crime prevention and the importance of community vigilance.
Ingenious Plan by Victim
The victim, who had experienced previous mail thefts, devised a clever plan to catch the culprits.
She mailed herself a package containing an AirTag, a small tracking device developed by Apple designed to help locate lost items.
When her mail was stolen again, including the package with the AirTag, she could track its location.
Notably, the victim refrained from confronting the suspects herself, opting instead to involve law enforcement.
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Arrest and Charges
The suspects, 27-year-old Virginia Franchessca Lara from Santa Maria and 37-year-old Donald Ashton Terry from Riverside, were in the 600 block of E. Sunrise Drive in Santa Maria.
Deputies discovered them in possession of the victim’s mail, including the AirTag-equipped package, as well as items believed to be stolen from over a dozen other victims.
Lara faces several felony charges, including possession of checks with intent to commit fraud, fictitious checks, identity theft, credit card theft, and conspiracy. She is currently held at the Northern Branch Jail on $50,000 bail.
Terry, who also faces multiple felony charges, including burglary and identity theft, was booked on additional theft-related warrants from Riverside County. His bail is set at $460,000.
The Sheriff’s Office praised the victim for her proactive approach and emphasized the importance of contacting law enforcement rather than attempting to confront suspects personally.
This case serves as a reminder of the effectiveness of combining technology with appropriate safety measures.
Deputies are continuing their investigation and contacting additional victims who may have been affected by the suspects’ activities.
This incident not only underscores the potential of devices like AirTags in aiding law enforcement but also highlights the critical role of community members in crime prevention.
As technology continues to evolve, such innovative solutions may become increasingly common in the fight against crime, offering new tools for individuals and law enforcement agencies.
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