Overview
- TMJ4 obtained locations for nine linked incidents through open records, with residents and police indicating at least a dozen Mequon homes targeted this year.
- Investigators cite a consistent method: masked suspects in black entering from wooded backyards, often at cul-de-sacs or near golf courses, stealing jewelry, handbags, watches and cash.
- Mequon police convened a regional intelligence-sharing meeting on Nov. 12 and are working with the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the state crime lab to cross-reference evidence.
- Trail-camera video of suspects helped draw widespread attention, while neighbors formed watch groups as audible alarms and surveillance reportedly deterred some attempts.
- Officials say the pattern matches hallmarks of South American theft groups; Rep. Tom Tiffany blamed federal immigration policy, though police have not tied the crimes to immigration status.