Two Cuban women have been detained in connection with a series of thefts at Public Storage facilities in southwest Miami. These incidents occurred primarily at two sites: 12800 SW 128th Street and 12625 SW 137th Avenue, with reported losses exceeding $21,000 in tools, clothing, electronics, and personal items.
The suspects, Yelena Blanco-Álvarez, 25, and Gisell Sotolongo-Mesa, 39, employed a systematic approach: they rented units in the same complexes, cut off the locks from neighboring units, and replaced them with new ones to prevent victims from realizing the theft. Surveillance cameras captured the accused removing suitcases and other items from the storage units, according to Telemundo 51, citing the police report.
The case came to light due to complaints from victims José Brito and Emilio Díaz, who identified their belongings in the security footage. The investigation revealed that the thefts had been occurring since August 2024, and several witnesses, including facility managers, recognized the suspects.
On January 23, Blanco-Álvarez was apprehended during a traffic stop, where burglary tools were found in her vehicle. Hours later, Sotolongo-Mesa was arrested at her home. One of the women confessed to her involvement. They both face charges of burglary, grand theft, possession of burglary tools, and Blanco-Álvarez also faces charges of amphetamine trafficking. Both were out on bail for previous offenses.
Authorities have advised storage unit users to regularly check their belongings and report any suspicious activity to prevent future incidents. Founded in 1972, Public Storage is a leading American company in the personal and commercial storage sector. With thousands of facilities mainly in the United States and Europe, it is one of the largest in its category worldwide. Public Storage provides various-sized spaces for customers to rent and store personal belongings, documents, merchandise, furniture, or vehicles. Customers access their units with keys or security codes during specified hours.
Understanding Public Storage Theft Cases
What methods did the suspects use in the Miami storage thefts?
The suspects rented storage units in the same complexes, cut locks from neighboring units, and replaced them with new ones to avoid detection by the victims.
How were the thefts at Public Storage facilities discovered?
The thefts were uncovered after victims reported missing items and identified their belongings on surveillance footage, leading to a police investigation.
When did the Miami storage thefts begin?
The investigation revealed that the thefts had been taking place since August 2024.