Five Venezuelan nationals are under arrest in connection with an international burglary ring targeting luxury homes from Juno Beach to Miami.
A year long investigation culminated with the arrests on Friday.
According to investigators, the men would come to Miami and burglarize luxury condos along the coastline. It's estimated that the group is responsible for $4 million in stolen property.
"These guys were very sophisticated and they were organized," said Det. Noel, with the Bay Harbor Islands Police.
On August 14, a surveillance team began 24-hour monitoring of the suspects. That same day officials believe the men are connected to a burglary caught on camera at a Key Biscayne condo, however they're still investigating.
On August 20, two of them were caught in the act while committing another burglary in Key Biscayne and then arrested, authorities said.
On August 22, two more were arrested at Miami International Airport while trying to return to Venezuela. The fifth suspect was later located and arrested with the assistance of Doral Police.
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"This should send a message to criminals. Whether you're in Bay Harbor Islands or Juno Beach, we will compare data, we will do analytical work and together as a team, we're gonna come for the criminals," Bay Harbor Islands Police Chief Sean Hemingway said.
Although detectives have recovered some property, burglary victims such as the Kellermans said it pains them to know they'll probably never get back four generations of family heirlooms.
"Very painful. The emotional aspect of it is something that you cant describe," Christine Kellerman said.
