Two men have been arrested in connection with a series of burglaries targeting homes under construction in the Live Oak Lake community, according to the St. Cloud Police Department.
Gabriel Sarmiento, 26, and Michael Torres Colon, 24, were taken into custody after a resident reported suspicious activity in the neighborhood. Responding officers observed the suspects driving separately in a moving truck and a sedan. The pair attempted to flee but were apprehended after turning onto a dead-end street.
Inside the rental truck, police discovered several home appliances, including ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators, which were later confirmed to have been stolen from nearby construction sites. Additionally, officers found illegal narcotics and a handgun in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed that the rental truck had been reported stolen.
Sarmiento and Torres Colon face multiple charges, including burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, grand theft, trespassing on a construction site, criminal mischief, grand theft auto, and possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.
“These acts have no business in our community and will not be tolerated,” said St. Cloud Police Chief Douglas Goerke. “Criminals who think St. Cloud will offer an easy score are sorely mistaken, and we will use all resources to bring them swiftly to justice.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine if the suspects are connected to other similar incidents in the area.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the St. Cloud Police Department.
