Four Suspects Arrested in Burglary Ring Targeting Asian Families in Northwest Washington

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Bellingham Police have arrested four men from Houston, Texas who are believed to be part of a regional burglary ring that targeted Asian families across northwest Washington, stealing an estimated $1.4 million in cash, jewelry, and other valuables. The suspects were identified through surveillance footage and GPS tracking, and are facing multiple felony charges including criminal conspiracy and hate crimes.

Why it matters

Crimes targeting specific ethnic groups can have a significant impact on community trust and feelings of safety, especially for Asian American families who have faced increased incidents of harassment and violence in recent years. This case highlights the need for coordinated law enforcement efforts to dismantle organized criminal networks that prey on vulnerable populations.

The details

The investigation began after a family in Bellingham's Cordata neighborhood reported a burglary on February 18. Detectives used surveillance footage to identify the suspects' vehicles and connect them to three other burglaries targeting Asian families in Snohomish and Mill Creek. They then tracked the vehicles to Anacortes, where another Asian family's home was burglarized. The four suspects - Daniel Sanchez Castillo, Jefren Moreno Godoy, Edward Rodriguez, and Kenver Cores Romero - were arrested on February 20 and charged with criminal conspiracy and hate crimes.

• The burglary in Bellingham's Cordata neighborhood was reported on February 18, 2026.
• The four suspects were arrested on February 20, 2026.
• The suspects pled not guilty during their arraignment in Whatcom County Superior Court on February 23, 2026.
• The jury trial is scheduled to begin on April 13, 2026.

What’s next

The four suspects are scheduled to face a jury trial on April 13, 2026 for the charges related to the burglary ring.