Detectives bust 2 in thefts of appliances from rental homes

Men accused of stealing 16 appliances from at least 5 homes

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Police said they have made two arrests and cracked a theft ring that hit at least five vacant rental homes and stole 16 major appliances.

Willie Evans, 46, and Jon Brynildsen, 21, were both charged with multiple counts of burglary and dealing in stolen property. According to the arrest report, Brynildsen admitted to stealing the items.

Evans complained of chest pains when he was at the jail being interviewed and was taken to a hospital.

Burglary detectives, who nicknamed their investigation Operation Yellow Box Truck since the stolen appliances were carted away in a yellow truck, said each of the homes was being readied for new occupants.

The arrest report said the two would pull up in the truck at homes on the Westside, plus one in Clay County, and pull out refrigerators stoves and other appliances. They then tried to sell them.

The pair was arrested at an Arlington used appliance store, where they were trying to sell their stolen goods.

The company that handles one of the burglarized properties was happy to hear of the arrests, adding that people need to know that this is happening in Jacksonville neighborhoods.

News4Jax crime and safety analyst Gil Smith said people should watch for anything suspicious at vacant homes in their neighborhood and call police when they see appliances being removed, particularly at night.

Smith also said a For Rent sign or address in the newspaper can tip off criminals. He recommends listing only the neighborhood and a phone number to call for more information.

Brynildsen and Evans are awaiting arraignment.


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