A deputy with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office interrupted a residential burglary on Tuesday morning during routine patrol of the Heritage Landing development on Burnt Store Road in Punta Gorda. Two suspects were arrested at the scene and detectives are still attempting to locate a third suspect who fled on foot.
At approximately 1:40am, the deputy stopped to investigate a U-Haul truck that was parked in front of an unoccupied residence on Golden Fern Drive. The deputy parked his patrol vehicle down the road, approaching the U-Haul on foot. The deputy observed Evelyn Maria Cruz (DOB 2/1/88) exiting the rear of the residence and detained her for a burglary investigation.
Aviation responded to the scene and observed two additional suspects on foot in the area. Aviation was able to relay information to a K9 Unit on the ground, leading to the apprehension of Yohander Romero-Pedroso (DOB 10/21/79) attempting to conceal himself in a ditch near the scene.
(DOB 1/18/80)
The third suspect, identified as Alexander Santiesteban (DOB 1/18/80), fled on foot and has not been located. He is a heavy set Hispanic male and was last seen wearing black shorts, a blue shirt, green sneakers and a blue hat. Detectives believe he may be headed to the Bradenton area.
Detectives are still seeking information on Santiesteban’s location. Please contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (941-639-0013) if you have information on his location.
Cruz and Romero-Pedroso are charged with Burglary and Grand Theft. Their booking photos are pending but will be available on our mobile app and at http://www.ccso.org.
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