Nicholas Vargas-Duran, 21, of New York, was sentenced to 4 to 10 years in prison for his involvement in a South American theft ring responsible for multiple residential break-ins that targeted Asian business owners in Montgomery, Berks, Chester, Delaware, Bucks, Lehigh, Lancaster, Northampton and Cambria counties between July and October 2024, The Pottstown Mercury reported today.

Vargas-Duran was among 11 Colombian nationals, each of whom was charged in connection with the theft ring. Four members received sentences last week and will likely face federal immigration and deportation proceedings after they serve their sentences.

Vargas-Duran was ordered to share with his co-conspirators in the payment of more than $300,000 in restitution, The Mercury said.

The thieves stole jewelry, cash, designer handbags and other household items from 13 homes in Abington, Horsham, Lower Merion, and Towamencin townships.

The theft ring was dismantled earlier this month by detectives from Abington Township and Montgomery County. Chief Patrick Molloy said that they used signal jammers, GPS trackers and cameras to follow their victims then pose as delivery drivers in order to break into homes. In one case, they broke in when children were home.

For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.

Photo: Montco DA