January 15, 2026
Mequon Sees Spike In Crime And Break Ins As Gangs With South American Ties Are To Blame
South American Crime organizations are the prime culprits for the police investigation. 
Published November 17, 2025

Over the past couple weeks, the quiet suburb of Mequon, is grappling with a rising pattern of break-ins and a growing perception that crime is changing in the community. 

According to the Mequon Police Department, investigators believe a sophisticated, highly mobile crime ring, described as a “South American” group, is responsible for about a dozen burglaries in the city this year alone.

The burglars reportedly pick houses in cul-de-sacs or properties adjacent to wooded areas, entering through backyards or windows. In some cases they carry backpacks, wear gloves and masks, and use power tools such as saws to cut into safes. 

Police say their strategy mirrors other break-ins across the state and nation, including previous incidents involving professional athletes’ homes. (RELATED: Prosecutors Say Another Milwaukee Judge Was ‘Uncomfortable’ With Hannah Dugan’s Actions)

Many residents are concerned that their community no longer feels as safe as it once did. One Mequon homeowner shared that despite having surveillance cameras and alarm systems, the uncertainty of who might be creeping through neighbors’ woods or slipping through unoccupied homes has increased awareness.

Several Wisconsin sheriff’s offices have signed agreements with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), under programs with ICE, enabling local jails and police to work more directly with federal immigration authorities. 

One report found that in Wisconsin, immigrants with criminal convictions make up the largest share of those arrested by ICE in Wisconsin since September 2023. (RELATED: Wisconsin Casinos Looking To Start Online Sports Betting Runs Into Roadblocks)

Roughly two-thirds of those arrested with prior criminal convictions had left the United States by late July, either via removal or a process referred to in agency records as “voluntary departure.”

Homeowners are being urged to: keep doors and windows locked, activate cameras and alarms (even when stepping out briefly), report suspicious activity promptly, and work closely with authorities.