HIGHLANDS RANCH, CO – Two suspects, Devon Lynn Ashley and Reese Bilyeu, have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a vehicle trespass and theft that occurred outside Cougar Run Elementary School in Highlands Ranch. The crime, which took place on August 27, saw the suspects steal property from a car while a 9-year-old child was inside.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, one of the suspects entered the parked vehicle and stole a computer and bag before getting into a black SUV and fleeing the scene around 7 a.m. The victim’s credit card was used at a King Soopers grocery store in the area later that evening.
Investigators tracked the suspects to a hotel in Denver’s E. Union Avenue, where they apprehended Bilyeu in the lobby. Bilyeu was found in possession of a handgun and extra ammunition. Ashley was arrested shortly after near a stolen Toyota RAV4 parked outside the hotel.
During a search of the vehicle, deputies found a hoodie and mask matching the description of the clothing worn during the theft, as well as illegal drugs and multiple stolen credit cards. Further investigation led to a search of the hotel room, where stolen property was recovered, including computers, passports, driver’s licenses, social security cards, credit cards, and other personal belongings from various victims.
Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly praised the efforts of the sheriff’s IMPACT team, emphasizing the importance of property crime investigations. Both suspects, who had multiple outstanding warrants, face charges including motor vehicle theft, vehicular trespassing, and other related offenses. Authorities also encouraged anyone with additional information to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 303-660-7579.