Suspects Apprehended in Daring School Theft: A Tale of Determination and Justice

In a gripping incident that unfolded in the heart of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, two suspects have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a vehicle trespass and theft that took place outside Cougar Run Elementary School. The investigation led detectives on a trail of clues, ultimately leading to the apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of a trove of stolen items.

Exposing a Brazen Crime and the Relentless Pursuit of Justice

The Theft at Cougar Run Elementary

The incident occurred on August 27th, just after 7 a.m., when a 9-year-old child was sitting inside a vehicle parked in front of Cougar Run Elementary School. Detectives believe that Devon Lynn Ashley and Reese Bilyeu, the two suspects, are responsible for breaking into the vehicle and stealing a computer, a bag, and other personal belongings.

Tracing the Suspects' Movements

Surveillance footage from the school provided crucial clues for the investigators. The footage revealed that one of the suspects entered the car and made off with the stolen items, then got into the passenger seat of a black SUV and drove away. Deputies were able to determine that the likely vehicle used in the crime was a Toyota RAV4 with a sunroof.

A Breakthrough in the Investigation

The investigation took a significant turn when the victim's credit card was used later that day at a King Soopers grocery store in Highlands Ranch. This lead prompted the deputies to focus their search on a hotel in the 7600 block of E. Union Avenue in Denver.

The Arrests and the Recovered Evidence

On Tuesday, the investigation led the deputies to the hotel, where they apprehended Bilyeu in the lobby. He was found to be in possession of a handgun and extra ammunition. Shortly after, Ashley was arrested near a stolen Toyota RAV4 parked outside the hotel.

The Extent of the Suspects' Crimes

A search of the vehicle and the hotel room yielded a trove of stolen items, including four computers, numerous passports, driver's licenses, social security cards, credit cards, and other personal information belonging to various victims. The deputies also discovered a hoodie and mask matching the description of those worn during the elementary school theft, as well as illegal drugs.

Praise for the Investigative Team

In a statement, Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly expressed his pride in the IMPACT team detectives who worked tirelessly to track down and apprehend the suspects. He emphasized the department's commitment to prioritizing property crimes and pursuing suspects with the same dedication as they would any other crime, ensuring that Douglas County remains a safe place for its residents.

The Road Ahead

Bilyeu and Ashley, who both had multiple outstanding warrants, will face additional charges in this case, including motor vehicle theft and vehicular trespassing. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is encouraging anyone with further information to come forward and contact the department's Tip Line.This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the unwavering dedication of law enforcement in safeguarding the well-being of a community. The successful apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of the stolen items are a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice, ensuring that Highlands Ranch remains a safe and secure place for all its residents.