Story perspectives

Police Link Houston Burglary Spree to South American Theft Group

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Police say a Houston burglary spree targeted over 60 homes and is linked to South American Theft Group (SATG), per Police Chief Gary Ratliff.
The SATG uses signal jammers and counter-surveillance to evade capture.
Seven burglaries in West University Place followed a pattern of stealing high-value items and disrupting security.
Authorities are investigating SATG activity across California and Florida, and one suspect, Ignacio Castillo Contreras, is jailed on unrelated charges.

1 of 1

Story summary

Police say a Houston burglary spree targeted over 60 homes and is linked to South American Theft Group (SATG), per Police Chief Gary Ratliff.
The SATG uses signal jammers and counter-surveillance to evade capture.
Seven burglaries in West University Place followed a pattern of stealing high-value items and disrupting security.
Authorities are investigating SATG activity across California and Florida, and one suspect, Ignacio Castillo Contreras, is jailed on unrelated charges.