The final member of a highly organized burglary crew has been sentenced to prison, effectively closing a complex case that targeted multiple businesses in Simi Valley. Sergio Andres Mejia-Machuca, 27, received a sentence of five years and eight months in state prison following his conviction.
This sentencing marks the conclusion of a legal process involving four individuals who orchestrated a series of high-stakes thefts in May 2025. The group targeted several local establishments, including 5-Star Jewelry & Watch Repair and Dr. Conkey’s Candy and Coffee Shop.
Investigators revealed that the crew utilized sophisticated methods to execute their crimes. They conducted extensive surveillance, disabled security systems, and gained entry by cutting through roofs and shared walls.
The operation resulted in the theft of jewelry, cash, and other valuables estimated to be worth over $1 million. The group also targeted Simi Valley Pawn Brokers during their coordinated spree.
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko praised the efforts of the Simi Valley Police Department in dismantling the operation. He noted that the professional nature of the burglars was ultimately overcome by the thoroughness of the local investigation.
Mejia-Machuca entered a guilty plea to charges including conspiracy to commit commercial burglary, possession of stolen property, and vandalism. He also admitted to special allegations regarding the high value of the stolen goods and the sophisticated planning involved in the crimes.
His sentence was notably longer than those of his co-defendants, a decision influenced by a prior residential burglary conviction from Maryland in 2023. The other three members of the crew, Manuel David Ibarra, Camilo Antonio Aguilar Lara, and Heidy Nickolt Trujillo, were sentenced in February 2026.
Those individuals received jail terms ranging from four to four years and four months. With the final sentencing of Mejia-Machuca, the legal proceedings for this brazen criminal enterprise have reached a definitive end.
Local business owners have expressed relief that the individuals responsible for the significant financial losses have been held accountable. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat organized commercial theft within the region.