Coordinated work by Specialized Investigations Division detectives and detectives from multiple precincts led to this afternoon’s arrest of a 19-year-old man for taking part in a series of business burglaries where vehicles were used to ram through entrances, causing tens of thousands of dollars in damage to buildings.
Thomas Membreno-Rodriquez of Neill Avenue is jailed tonight in lieu of $140,500 bond on five counts of burglary, one count of attempted burglary, four counts of felony theft, four counts of felony vandalism, marijuana possession, and driving without a license.
Membreno-Rodriquez was stopped on Mansfield Street at N. 9th Street today and detained for driving without a license and having marijuana. During a subsequent interview with detectives, Membreno-Rodriquez admitted that he and accomplices were responsible for:
- The burglary of High Caliber Weaponry Training, 2611 Lebanon Pike, on August 5 during which a vehicle stolen in Smyrna was used to smash through the entrance of the business;
- The burglary of VapeZone, 519 Donelson Pike, on August 6 during which a stolen vehicle was used to ram through the storefront;
- The burglary of Vape USA, 2809 Nolensville Pike, on August 6 during which a stolen vehicle was used to crash through the entrance of the business;
- The burglary of Vape World Smoke Shop, 841 Briley Parkway, on August 13 during which a stolen vehicle was used to smash through the entrance of the store;
- The burglary of Smoke for Less, 1105 N. Gallatin Pike, on August 13 during which a stolen vehicle was used to ram through the entrance of the business;
- The attempted burglary of Let’s Vape, 5757 Nolensville Pike, on July 7 during which three suspects attempted to use a stolen vehicle to smash their way inside. The vehicle bounced off the doors/building, causing an estimated $3,000 in damage. The suspects fled without getting into the business.
In addition to the Nashville cases, Membreno-Rodriquez admitted to taking part in a business burglary in Lebanon and one in Nolensville.
The investigation is continuing to identify and apprehend the other individuals involved.
Related Images
Thomas Membreno-Rodriquez, 19