According to police, from November 2013 until July 2014 the suspects entered various retail businesses around the valley and stole primarily lingerie and other clothing/items from the businesses. In June 2014 Phoenix Police detectives from the Business and Economic Stability Team (B.E.S.T.) began gathering information and evidence against the family. Detectives performed surveillance operations and made purchases from the family at their yard sales. Detectives learned the suspects would often distract employees of the businesses in order to commit the thefts.
In one instance, Terri Vargas and Mario Vargas committed a theft at Arrowhead Mall. When the suspects exited the mall they were confronted by mall security. At that time Mario Vargas produced a large “pepper spray” device and sprayed the security guard repeatedly as they escaped capture. This incident is indicative of the level of violence to which some suspects are willing to go in an effort to avoid apprehension.
On August 8th, 2014 Phoenix Police detectives and the Special Assignments Unit served a search warrant at the suspect’s residence and all were taken into custody. Many stolen items were recovered during the search, including some still containing the sales tag and security device.
Elizabeth Rodriguez-Alvarez is mother to Terri Vargas, Lizzette Vargas and Mario Vargas. All live in the same home as does Jose Alvarez-Burgos who is married to Terri.
• Jose Alvarez-Burgos, Hispanic, male, 23 years of age
• Terri Yvette Vargas, Hispanic, female, 25 years of age
• Lizzette Vargas, Hispanic, female, 27 years of age
• Mario Vargas, Hispanic, male, 28 years of age
• Elizabeth Rodriguez-Alvarez, Hispanic, female, 48 years of age