The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office announces arrest in international theft ring

PRESS RELEASE – FCSO has arrested Maykel Hernandez, Giorge Navea and Javier Guerra-Morales for Burglary – Smash and Grab and Criminal Damage to Property.

On December 30, 2022 Forsyth County deputies responded to Simon D. Jewelers, located 2915 Peachtree Parkway, in reference to a business alarm. During the response and on-scene investigation, forced entry was discovered through the roof of the business. Deputies quick response and the buildings robust security system helped prevent any theft from actually occurring.

FCSO Detectives quickly theorized the trio was part of an active South American Theft Group and similar groups have targeted area businesses as well as residential homes. These groups have been active across metro-Atlanta and FCSO has tracked them to over a dozen states.

These three are also suspects in burglaries or attempts locally within the cities Marietta, Canton, Alpharetta and even Knoxville TN. FCSO has been working closely with those agencies to provide assistance and information concerning these suspects and their activities.

“This is another excellent example of good police work and even better Detective work by our Property Crimes Unit. We are steadfast in our pursuit of these South American Theft Groups and these criminals are quickly learning, South America is where they should have stayed,” said Sheriff Freeman, “If they are on U.S. soil, FCSO will spare no expense or effort and will recognize no boundary in pursuing and arresting them. Endanger our citizens and you will quickly find out who FCSO and Forsyth county are.”

Emma Dunn