SAN ANTONIO — A serial burglar who police say was targeting shopping center parking lots in north San Antonio was arrested Wednesday.
The suspect, 18-year-old Mikey Valdez – whom officials called a known burglar throughout the city – was allegedly breaking into cars parked at The Rim and at La Cantera, according to police. Valdez was arrested on three warrants Wednesday, including unlawful carry, unauthorized use of a vehicle and theft of a vehicle.
Police say they have been surveilling Valdez for some time leading up to this arrest.
"He does have priors of burglary of vehicles and thefts, so this is somebody we've been watching," said San Antonio Police spokesman Ricardo Guzman. "We believe he's tied to multiple other cases of burglary of vehicles and we can expect more charges on him."
SAPD was assisted in his apprehension by the U.S. Marshal's Office. A search warrant for his home was then obtained, upon which police say they found numerous stolen items inside, including stolen firearms.
"It's a good case by our property crimes of Texas, they do good work and are unsung heroes," added Guzman.
Police urge shoppers to avoid giving criminals any reason to break into a car. Don't leave shopping bags in plain sight. Lock them in your trunk or hang onto them.
"Clothes that are worth a good amount of money. These are things these suspects are looking for, things of value. If you're going shopping at malls, they're looking for brand bags. That draws attention," said Guzman.
If you believe you're a victim in this case, SAPD says you should have been given a case number when you called to report the stolen items. If your property is found, detectives will give you a call. If you haven't filed a police report, you should do that as soon as possible.
"This guy's just starting his life at 18 years old and already has a heavy criminal record of felony warrants. Our advice as police officers to [potential criminals] is don't do it," said Guzman. "You're gonna get caught."
Police say more charges can be expected later Wednesday.
This is a developing story.
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