Upland, CA — A pair of alleged burglars—quickly dubbed the “Mickey Bandits”—experienced a major setback early Thursday morning when authorities in San Bernardino County disrupted what police say was a multi-city burglary spree.
According to the Upland Police Department, officers responded around 4:30 a.m. to reports of a burglary in progress at a dental office near Euclid Avenue and Arrow Highway. The call prompted an immediate response due to concerns that the suspects were still on the property.
Suspicious Vehicle Leads to Critical Break
Upon arriving, officers noticed a suspicious vehicle slowly exiting a nearby alley without its headlights on, a detail police say raised immediate alarm. Officers attempted a traffic stop, and although the female driver hesitated briefly, she ultimately pulled over.
Inside the car, officers discovered an assortment of stolen items—many believed to have been taken during the break-in—including a Mickey Mouse stuffed animal, which helped inspire the suspects’ now-viral nickname. Police also recovered burglary tools, gloves, meth pipes, and a hoodie matching the one worn by the suspect during the crime.
Surveillance Footage Reveals Tell-Tale Clue
Police shared surveillance footage of the break-in on Facebook, highlighting a moment in which one of the suspects can be seen holding the Mickey Mouse plush toy while rummaging through the business.
The footage and recovered items strongly linked the pair to the Upland burglary, but investigators soon learned their alleged crime spree extended beyond the city limits.
Linked to Multiple Burglaries in Neighboring City
Authorities stated that the duo had already hit two commercial businesses in Claremont shortly before arriving in Upland, making it a three-location crime spree in a short timeframe.
Police further revealed that the female suspect, whose name has not yet been released, was already on probation in Los Angeles County for a previous burglary conviction. This heightened the seriousness of the charges she now faces.
Arrests and Potential Charges
Both the male and female suspects were taken into custody and booked on suspicion of commercial burglary along with several additional charges related to possession of burglary tools and drug-related paraphernalia.
Authorities also impounded their vehicle for 30 days, which is standard procedure in cases involving certain crimes such as felony-level burglary, probation violations, or attempts to flee law enforcement.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has sparked a mix of concern and amusement among locals—particularly due to the unusual presence of the Mickey Mouse plush during the burglary. However, police emphasized that the crimes themselves are no laughing matter and urged businesses in the area to remain vigilant.
Investigators are now working to determine whether the pair may be connected to additional burglaries in surrounding areas. Anyone with surveillance footage or information is encouraged to contact the Upland Police Department.
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