On Thursday at about 2PM, Florence Police Officers responded to a residential alarm on South Orlando Street located in the Town of Florence. It was determined by officers that forced entry had been used by the suspects to gain entry into the residence. A female witness stated she had observed Joey Lara at the residence at the time of the burglary.
While checking the areas around the burglary site, officers conducted a traffic stop and arrested the backseat occupants identified as Joey Lara and Richard Lona on outstanding warrants.
During the traffic stop officers observed a white pillow case in the area of the control of the suspects. Inside the pillow case was a jewelry box and jewelry valued at $5,000. A pill bottle belonging to the victim of the burglary was also located inside of the pillow case. During the search of the vehicle, officers also discovered drug paraphernalia.
It was determined somehow that the driver of the vehicle had no part in the burglary/crime and was not detained.
Joey Lara and Richard Lona were arrested and charged with Burglary-2nd Degree, Criminal Damage, Theft, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Both subjects are in custody with $20,000 secure bonds.