Miami, FL – Two Cuban women, Yelena Blanco-Álvarez, 25, and Gisell Sotolongo-Mesa, 39, were arrested after being accused of participating in a series of robberies at Public Storage facilities across Southwest Miami. The thefts, which spanned from August 2024, resulted in losses exceeding $21,000, including tools, clothing, electronics, and personal belongings.
The women allegedly used a systematic approach to steal from their victims. They rented storage units at two locations—12800 SW 128th Street and 12625 SW 137th Avenue—then cut the locks off neighboring units, replacing them with their own locks to prevent victims from noticing the thefts. Surveillance footage showed the suspects removing suitcases and various items from the storage units.
The thefts were brought to light thanks to the reports from victims José Brito and Emilio Díaz, who recognized their belongings in the security footage. Investigators determined that the crimes had been taking place for several months, with facility managers and other witnesses identifying the suspects.
Blanco-Álvarez was arrested on January 23 during a traffic stop when burglary tools were discovered in her vehicle. Sotolongo-Mesa was apprehended shortly after at her residence. One of the suspects later confessed to their involvement in the robberies.
Both women face charges including robbery, grand theft, possession of burglary tools, and trafficking in amphetamines for Blanco-Álvarez. The two were reportedly out on bail for previous offenses at the time of their arrests.
Authorities have issued a reminder to customers using storage facilities to regularly check their belongings and report any suspicious activity to help prevent future thefts.