Crime Group Targeting Asians Caught Burglarizing Home: Northbrook PD

NORTHBROOK, IL — Eight members of a transnational organized crime group were caught actively burglarizing a home in the 1900 block of Thornwood Lane and are now being charged with felony crimes. The group was being investigated for targeting local business owners of Asian descent for residential burglaries, according to police.

On Friday, Northbrook police officers, working together with investigators from North Regional Major Crimes and NORTAF Burglary task force, identified the members of the group. The following felony charges were approved on Saturday by the Cook County State's Attorney’s Office:

• William A. Guszman, 31, was charged with felony residential burglary and possession of burglary tools
• Hector Castellanos-Rodriguez, 36, was charged with felony residential burglary and possession of burglary tools
• Catalina Colin-Cortes, 43, was charged with felony residential burglary and possession of burglary tools
• Bairon Vasquez-Ortiz, 27, was charged with felony residential burglary and possession of burglary tools
• Denilson F. Gomez-Ortiz, 20, was charged with felony residential burglary
• Alex Vasquez-Ortiz, 24, was charged with felony residential burglary
• Michael S. Quintero-Cifuentes, 31, was charged with felony residential burglary
• Leidy J. Vasquez-Ortiz, 30, was charged with felony residential burglary

Police said an investigation is ongoing and believe the group is responsible for other burglaries in Northbrook and the surrounding areas. The public is encouraged to contact the investigations unit at 847-564-2060, if they have seen any of the individuals in or around residences and businesses in Northbrook.

The public is reminded to be aware of their surroundings, watch for any suspicious vehicles and suspicious persons, and always call 9-1-1 to report suspicious activity, while it is happening, whenever possible.