Burglary Tourism: A Growing Problem in Michigan

International organized crime groups from Chile are entering the U.S. as tourists to skillfully rob wealthy suburban homes in Michigan. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard estimates that these groups cost the community approximately $1 million per year.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has raised the alarm about a new trend of "burglary tourism," where international organized crime groups enter the United States to skillfully rob wealthy suburban homes. These groups, primarily from Chile, are well-trained, equipped, and knowledgeable about the art of breaking into homes.

Sheriff Bouchard believes that these burglars undergo a form of training before entering the U.S., given their high level of expertise. They conduct pre-operation surveillance to determine when a home will be unoccupied and quickly target the premises, breaking a window and entering through it rather than opening a door or window. They also use electronic jammers to disable security systems.

Once inside, the burglars focus on stealing high-end jewelry, watches, cash, and designer purses. They are particularly interested in items that are highly valuable and portable. After committing their crimes, they quickly move on to another home and eventually to other parts of the country.

Sheriff Bouchard has urged the State Department to reconsider Chile's participation in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows tourists and business travelers from certain countries to enter the U.S. for 90 days or less without a visa or thorough vetting process. He believes that this program facilitates the entry of these criminal groups.

"All we're asking is that the federal government either pause or discontinue Chile from that program," said Sheriff Bouchard. "That doesn't mean they can't come and visit from Chile. They just have to get a traditional visa with a higher level of scrutiny and background than what happens currently with the BWP."

Bouchard also mentioned that Colombians entering the U.S. through the southern border are contributing to the burglary problem. Similar crimes have been reported in several other states, including California, New Jersey, and New York.

In California, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer has been outspoken about the issue since last summer, calling the Southern California burglaries "carefully calculated and planned." He has filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration for failing to respond to public records requests related to the issue and has called on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to remove Chile from the VWP.

Chile is the only Latin American country on the 41-country list included in the VWP. The State Department considers it a regional leader for the rule of law and economic stability. However, the recent surge in burglary tourism suggests a need for reassessment.

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Homeowners can take steps to protect their properties, such as installing security systems, keeping lights on at night, and removing valuables from plain sight.