Brazen Twin Cities Temple Heist: Thieves Target Sacred Spaces in $100K Crime Spree!
Two men are behind bars after a shocking series of burglaries targeting temples across the Twin Cities, leaving communities reeling. š #News #StPaulMN #Minnesota #Crime
ST. PAUL, MN – Authorities have arrested two men believed to be responsible for a string of burglaries that specifically targeted temples and homes of individuals within the Hindu and Buddhist communities in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The thefts, which left religious leaders and community members shocked, were part of a larger investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies across several counties.
A Disturbing Trend of Targeting Sacred Spaces
The two men, who are now in custody, are accused of being involved in a July 6 burglary at a Maple Grove home located near the Hindu Society of Minnesota. This home burglary took place just weeks after temple leaders reported the theft of around $70,000 worth of jewelry, cash, and sacred religious artifacts from their temple.
The investigation widened when charges were filed against the suspects in Ramsey County. These charges are connected to a burglary at a Buddhist temple in St. Paul on July 14. According to court documents, a resident of the temple returned from a funeral to find the buildingās back door damaged and approximately $200 missing from a bedroom. Video footage reportedly shows the suspects roaming through the temple before the theft.
Thousands in Valuables Stolen Across the Region
The thefts have had a significant financial and emotional impact on the community. In total, the suspects are believed to have stolen about $100,000 worth of valuables from 14 different temples, including sacred items central to worship.
The president of the Hindu Society of Minnesota expressed disbelief at the audacity of the crimes, describing how brazen the burglars were in entering temples, stealing precious items, and even appearing on security cameras without concern.
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Suspects in Custody: A Larger Criminal Network?
The two men charged in connection to the burglaries include a 27-year-old, currently detained in Orange County, California, and a 37-year-old who is being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Freeborn County, Minnesota. Both individuals are expected to be extradited to Hennepin County, where they will face additional charges.
Law enforcement officials suspect that these men are part of a larger burglary crew responsible for targeting places of worship and residences in areas including Blaine and Carver County.
Some Items Recovered, Many Still Missing
Although authorities in Carver County have managed to recover a small portion of the stolen items, including rings and earrings valued at around $5,000, the vast majority of the stolen goods are still missing.
The community remains hopeful that more items might eventually be found, but there is a recognition that many of the sacred and valuable objects taken may never be returned.
Ongoing Investigations and Law Enforcement Efforts
While the investigation into these burglaries continues, particularly the theft from the Hindu Society of Minnesota, community leaders have expressed their gratitude for the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies.
One local religious leader mentioned how appreciative they are of the work done by local police and other agencies, praising their determination to ensure that the Twin Cities will no longer be an easy target for such criminal acts.
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