ORMOND BEACH, Fla. – Ormond Beach police investigators said they arrested a man for burglarizing a home and through multiple law agencies, the department discovered that he was part of something much bigger.
The first piece to the social media app burglary ring started at the Ormond Beach Police Department.
Kenneth Tuebner, 42, led authorities to bust a multi-agency burglary ring after police reportedly busted him with stolen items at the Scottish Inn Hotel in April.
"It's just good old-fashioned detective work," said Jimmie Flynt of DBPD.
Daytona Beach police said one they compared Tuebner to their five burglary cases, they connected the dots.
"These must be connected to these victims being contacted through this social media app," said Flynt.
Police said Tuebner, along with 28-year-old Brian Haddan and 27-year-old Chanara Chhoun used the dating app called Grindr and the Craiglist's personal section to lure their victims.
"One of the suspects says, 'hey, I'll come over.' He's maybe there for 15 or 20 minutes," said Flynt.
Investigators said the suspect would then ask the victim for a ride and in that time, send a text message to his partners that the house is empty.
"By the time the victim gets back home, his house has been broken into. He's missing maybe laptops, jewelry, we've had several firearms taken," said Flynt.
Police said the trio were involved in at least 16 burglaries throughout Volusia County, even spilling into Flagler County, for the last 10 months.
While the major players are now facing multiple charges, police said more people will be arrested.
"It's real dangerous because you don't know who you are inviting to your house," said Flynt.
Ormond Beach Police Department said it is investigating six cases involving the app Grindr.