Three minors arrested in gun shop burglary

Three juveniles are facing charges in a break-in and theft at a Las Cruces gun shop, with city and federal law enforcement agencies involved.

Miller Guns and Ammo, located on N. Telshor Boulevard, was broken into and burglarized around 4 a.m. on Sunday, June 23 by three juvenile suspects identified through surveillance video.

Three boys, two 15-year-olds and a 12-year-old who were not identified because of their ages, have been charged with aggravated burglary, breaking and entering and larceny of more than $20,000, accused in the theft of 30 firearms, ammunition and other items from the business. Additionally, one of the 15-year-old defendants has been charged with possession of a stolen vehicle: A Kia Forte reported stolen from an address on Eagle Ridge Drive. The three boys were seen in a surveillance video in the car, according to a news release from the city.

Two of the boys were arrested by Las Cruces police following the break-in, after responding to the 2300 block of Columbia Avenue for reports of a subject with a gun. The 12-year-old and one of the 15-year-olds were found with two firearms allegedly stolen from the gun shop. The other 15-year-old suspect was arrested on Monday afternoon, June 24.

Police stated in the news release that 14 stolen firearms and some accessories were recovered during a consensual search of one boy’s residence, and that since then they have recovered additional handguns and rifles reported stolen.

The case is being investigated by the Las Cruces Police Department and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Police are seeking information helpful in located outstanding firearms and other stolen items, and requested tips be phoned in to police at 575-526-0795.