SALEM, Ore. (KOIN) — A Salem family’s home surveillance photos and a plea for help on social media helped lead to the speedy captures of 2 suspected home burglars.
The Mendoza family were gone Tuesday afternoon from their Northeast Salem home when a burglar broke in through the front door. He first took the house keys and car keys, then a camera and other items before a family dog began barking from behind a bedroom door.
The thief left, but shortly after a woman entered the Mendoza home and unplugged the security camera.
The pair are suspected of stealing dozens of items — game consoles, wallets, tablets, laptos, clothes, cash, even some diapers.
When the Mendozas came home, they called police and began posting pictures on their Facebook page and on the Salem-Keizer Crime Page. At this time, their post has been shared more than 5000 times just from their personal page.
They also posted their dog was hurt. The thieves gave the dog chocolate with nuts and may have a jaw injury.
And those shares led to people who commented they knew who the thieves were.
“People started reposting, giving us lots of tips,” Jesus Mendoza told KOIN 6 News. “That’s how we found out what hotel room they were in.”.
Marinna Bayles, 26, and 28-year-old Jose Anguiano were arrested and charged with 1st-degree burglary.
Mrs. Mendoza also said detectives sent her a photo of the woman wearing her stolen sneakers
The dog was checked out by a veterinarian and is expected to be OK.
The Mendoza family told KOIN 6 News they received several emails that the suspects may have been involved in other similar crimes in Salem. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.