Community Unites to Assist Novi Police in Arrest of Suspected Gang Member

Community Keeps a Watchful Eye as Novi Police Capture Alleged Gang Member

Novi — Exciting happenings unfolded in our cozy little town recently, showcasing just how vital it is for neighbors to keep an eye out for each other. On December 5, an alert homeowner helped local police make a rare arrest of a suspected transnational gang member right in the heart of Novi. This incident marks an important victory for our community as we face a surge of home invasions.

What Went Down?

It all started when the homeowner, living on Equestrian Trail near Eight Mile and Beck roads, received an alert from his security system around 7:19 p.m. It seemed suspicious activity was afoot, so he quickly checked his cameras and spotted not one, but several individuals trying to break into his home. In a flash, he contacted the Novi Police Department.

The police, already patrolling the area due to a string of break-ins, responded rapidly. Just as they arrived, officers spotted a white van with out-of-state plates leaving the scene. They tried to pull it over, but the van sped away, leading to a brief chase. However, the suspects decided to make a run for it, jumping out of the vehicle and fleeing on foot. With swift action, police were able to apprehend one suspect, although three others managed to slip away.

Community Police Partnership

Erick Zinser, the Novi’s Chief of Police, expressed gratitude for the collaboration between the police and vigilant citizens. “This is a great example of our police and citizens working together to combat these criminal elements that continue to operate throughout the United States,” he shared. The importance of staying alert was further emphasized as the police continued their investigation with local, state, and federal partners.

As for the stolen goods, officers recovered a safe, but unfortunately, the jewelry was nowhere to be found. The suspect who was caught, Vania Herrera Valdes, 21, provided a fake name initially but was later identified with the help of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Valdes, originally from Chile, was in the country illegally and was not a stranger to trouble, having a criminal record involving theft from another state.

Charges and Upcoming Proceedings

The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office charged Valdes with a second-degree home invasion—carrying a potential 15-year prison sentence—and resisting arrest, which is a two-year felony. After appearing before a magistrate, she was given a hefty bond of $100,000 and is now awaiting her upcoming court dates.

The Bigger Picture: Transnational Gangs

Did you know that transnational gangs operate across the United States, targeting homes that have high-value items? They often consist of individuals from South American countries—chiefly Chile, Venezuela, and Colombia. According to sources, at least 100 of these gangs, made up of more than 600 members, are active in our country.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard provided some insight, explaining that these groups usually target homes that look high-end and may have valuables behind secluded entrances—think backyards shielded by trees or golf courses. This highlights the importance of setting up effective security measures at home.

Safety First: Tips for Residents

Here’s some food for thought: keep those security systems active! Many of the homes hit by these gangs lacked proper alarm systems, opening the door for easy entry. If you have a safe, ensure it’s well-secured to avoid having the entire thing carted away.

As residents reported an increase in suspicious activity, Bouchard urged everyone to look out for each other and remember that “if you see something unusual, contact police.” Being proactive about neighborhood safety could make all the difference.

Stay Alert, Stay Safe!

The Novi Police Department remains on top of their game and is actively investigating the recent home invasions. They encourage residents to continue reporting suspicious activities in their neighborhoods. Every report helps! If you have any information about recent incidents or have spotted anything strange, don’t hesitate to give them a call at (248) 348-7100.

In the end, teamwork makes the dream work, and our community’s vigilance stands strong against the challenges posed by these transnational gangs. Let’s continue to keep our beloved Novi safe!