Two Silver Spring men charged in series of wheel thefts dating back 2 years

GAITHERSBURG, Md. (7News) -- Two Silver Spring men have been arrested and charged by the Montgomery County Department of Police after an investigation into a series of wheel thefts that took place over the past two years. The men, Manuel Perez, 24, and Jonathan Cruz, 20, were apprehended following an attempted wheel theft reported on March 4 in the 11000 block of Burnley Terrace.

Officers found Perez and Cruz at the scene and discovered stolen tires from a vehicle in the 11200 block of Oak Leaf Drive, which had been taken the day before. Further inquiries linked Perez to three more wheel thefts dating back to December 2023, indicating a pattern of criminal activity.

On March 21, a search of Perez's home revealed a firearm and fentanyl pills, raising the severity of the case. Initially, both men faced charges related to theft and were released on bond, but the investigation continued to unfold.

A warrant was subsequently issued for Perez, prompting him to surrender to authorities on March 27. He now faces additional charges that include theft and firearm possession, further complicating the legal consequences of his actions.

The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address and combat automobile-related crimes in the area, underscoring the importance of community vigilance and police investigations in maintaining safety.