Montgomery County police arrested Sia Tumoe, 27 of Gaithersburg, and charged her with three counts of first-degree burglary and possession of a controlled dangerous substance.
Since the beginning of November 2003, at least 12 homes were burglarized when residents left their garage doors open, say Montgomery County police. Of these 12, five homes were actually entered and had property taken. Cars left unlocked within the garage also had property taken out of them. Purses were the main item taken from cars, police say.
During the investigation, detectives from the Montgomery County 1st District Investigative Section determined Tumoe was a suspect and obtained a search warrant.
In her home, police say they found property taken during the burglaries, and drugs.
Tumoe was charged with the burglaries at the 11900 block of Clover Knoll Road, the 11100 block of Pinion Court and the 11400 block of Royal View Court.
Police are continuing their investigation. “There will probably be at least three more [charges filed],” said Police spokesperson Joyce Utter, “probably more.”
Tumoe was released on $2,500 bond, said Utter.
Residents who were victims and would like to attempt to reclaim their belongings should contact Det. Joann Richards of the 1st District Investigative Section at 301-279-1602.