Four Chilean nationals have been sentenced after filming their entire break-in at a jewelry store in Simi Valley, Southern California — where they stole over $3 million in watches and jewelry.
According to the Ventura County District Attorney's Office, the group broke through a wall from Dr. Conkey’s Candy & Coffee Shop to reach the safe at Five Star Jewelry & Watch Repair on the other side. Video released by prosecutors shows the suspects using crowbars to break in, posing for the camera, and later sorting the stolen assets at an apartment in LA County.
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko stated that the burglary crew had previously cased the scene, checking security cameras and surveying the common wall between the two shops to access the safe. Five days later, on May 25, 2025, they returned with ladders, ropes, and other tools, entering from the roof before breaking into the safe.
When arrested on June 10, some suspects were found wearing the stolen jewelry, while others were carrying the assets in bags.
Manuel Ibarra and Camilo Lara were sentenced to 4 years and 4 months in prison. Heidi Trujillo received a 4-year sentence. The fourth defendant, Sergio Andres Mejía-Machuca, is awaiting sentencing in March.
The prosecutor emphasized the organized nature and high level of preparation of the case, asserting that the local area will not tolerate professional burglary rings targeting the community.
