Sophisticated Burglary Crew Sentenced for Multi-Million Dollar Simi Valley Heist

Three members of the crew received over 4 years in jail for the coordinated burglary at two Simi Valley businesses.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Three members of a sophisticated burglary crew were sentenced to over 4 years in jail for their roles in a coordinated commercial burglary on May 25, 2025, at 5-Star Jewelry & Watch Repair and Dr. Conkey's Candy and Coffee Shop in Simi Valley, California. The crew stole millions in cash and jewelry after cutting through the roof and walls between the two businesses.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of organized burglary crews that target small businesses in Ventura County. The level of planning and sophistication involved in this heist demonstrates the need for stronger security measures and coordination between law enforcement to combat these types of coordinated crimes.

The details

According to prosecutors, the crew conducted extensive surveillance of the two businesses prior to the burglary, including observing the interior of the jewelry store, inspecting the shared walls, and disabling security cameras. On the day of the crime, they used a ladder to access the roof of Dr. Conkey's Candy, cut through, and then breached the wall into the jewelry store, stealing millions in cash and jewelry.

  • On May 16, 2025, one defendant stole rope from a Home Depot for use in the crime.
  • On May 20, 2025, three defendants conducted surveillance at the businesses.
  • On May 25, 2025, the defendants returned and carried out the coordinated burglary.
  • On January 21, 2026, three defendants pled guilty to the charges.
  • On February 20, 2026, three defendants were sentenced to over 4 years in jail.

The players

Manuel David Ibarra

One of the four members of the sophisticated burglary crew who was sentenced to 4 years and 4 months in jail.

Camilo Antonio Aguilar Lara

One of the four members of the sophisticated burglary crew who was sentenced to 4 years and 4 months in jail.

Heidi Trujillo

One of the four members of the sophisticated burglary crew who was sentenced to 4 years in jail.

Sergio Andres Mejía-Machuca

The fourth member of the sophisticated burglary crew who had his sentencing hearing continued to March 26, 2026.

Erik Nasarenko

The Ventura County District Attorney who announced the sentences.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The planning, surveillance, and sophistication involved in this case required the defendants' removal from society. Ventura County will not tolerate organized burglary crews that treat our communities like targets. If you engage in this kind of conduct, you will face significant consequences.”

— Erik Nasarenko, Ventura County District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on March 26, 2026 whether to sentence the fourth defendant, Sergio Andres Mejía-Machuca.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the growing threat of sophisticated burglary crews targeting small businesses in Ventura County. It highlights the need for increased security measures, stronger law enforcement coordination, and tougher sentencing to deter these types of organized crimes that cause significant financial and emotional harm to local communities.