MAPLE GROVE, Minn. – There are new charges against thieves who police say specifically targeted Twin Cities temples.
The series of burglaries Homes and places of worship belonging to individuals of the Hindu and Buddhist faiths were targeted, according to Maple Grove police, who are part of a multi-jurisdictional investigation into the incidents.
It is believed the two men now in custody are linked to the series of thefts.
Police said these men are now charged in connection with a July burglary at a Maple Grove home on Vagabond Lane. That home is just minutes south of where temple leaders said $70,000 worth of jewelry and cash, including sacred religious items, were stolen from the Hindu Society of Minnesota last June.
In total, the burglars stole $100,000 worth of cash, jewelry and sacred objects from 14 temples, said Shajive Jeganathan, president of the Hindu Society of Minnesota.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet. It’s so brazen that they can walk in, steal something, wave at a camera and walk out,” Jeganathan said.
The two men charged in the burglary include a 27-year-old suspect, who is currently in custody in Orange County, California, and a 37-year-old who is being held in ICE custody in Freeborn County, police said. Both men will eventually be extradited to Hennepin County.
“It still shocks me to this day,” Jeganathan said.
Authorities in Carver County were able to recover $5,000 worth of stolen items, including rings and earrings, Jeganathan said.
“It is very unlikely at this point that the other items will be returned, but one can hope,” he said.
Meanwhile, Maple Grove police said their investigation into the Hindu Society thefts continues, for which no charges have yet been filed.
“I am very grateful to Minnesota’s law enforcement agencies. They have done the best they can, and I am extremely grateful for all the work they have done to ensure that our temple will be the last and Minnesota will be the last place They could be breaking in,” Jeganathan said.
