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Tualatin teens accused in theft ring

07:54 AM PDT on Friday, June 26, 2009

By ERIC ADAMS and KGW Staff

TUALATIN, Ore. -- Four Tualatin teenagers have been accused of breaking into unlocked cars over a two-month period, taking more than $12,000 worth of items, and then reselling the stolen items on Craigslist.

Teens busted on Craigslist

The teenagers, between 14 and 16 years old, targeted 12 unlocked cars in southwest Tualatin on various nights in March and April, stealing GPS units, cell phones, iPods, stereos, DVD players, cameras and sunglasses, according to police.

The thefts occurred in 12 different locations, with more than 100 items stolen.

Police claim they made off with $2,700 in cash from one car. In total, more than $12,000 in items were reported stolen and linked to the teenagers.

"There were 12 victims at 12 different locations so I think things just added up as they went,” said Jennifer Massey with Tualatin Police Department.

The suspects were charged with unlawful entry into a motor vehicle, several counts of theft in the first, second and third degree, and burglary.

All four suspects were referred to Washington County Juvenile Department and released to their parents.

"I don't think it's fair and I think they should do several hours of community service, I really do,” said Leslie Matlick, a victim’s sister.

Matlick led police to the suspects after recognizing her sister's DVD player posted for sell on Craigslist.

She posed as a buyer and then alerted police.

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