Police investigating burglary ring after Pryor smash-and-grab

A recent smash-and-grab theft outside a Pryor recreation center has led investigators to a suspected multi-state burglary ring operating across Oklahoma and Texas.

Authorities say the thieves have stolen approximately $10,000 in cash and checks so far, targeting vehicles for purses, wallets, and personal information.

Surveillance Video Shows Quick, Coordinated Theft

Security footage from the rec center in Pryor shows two suspects casing the parking lot for nearly 30 minutes before breaking into an SUV and then another vehicle and fleeing within seconds.

“You can definitely tell they kind of cased the place,” said Pryor Creek Police Chief Jeremy Cantrell. “They pull up next to the vehicle, open the doors, both go out within seconds, and are back in their car and gone.”

String of Burglaries Across Northeast Oklahoma

The Pryor case quickly connected to additional vehicle break-ins in Claremore — one outside a daycare and another at a golf course.

Investigators believe the same group later used stolen IDs from those victims to cash checks stolen in Texas. The checks were fraudulently cashed at banks in Sand Springs and Tulsa.

Organized Ring Suspected

“There are several people involved — male and female — and multiple vehicles. They’re even using fake license plates to avoid detection by plate readers. It appears to be a ring,” said Cantrell.

So far, the suspects are believed to have stolen and cashed about $10,000 in fraudulent checks.

Police Urge Public to Secure Belongings

Cantrell is warning residents to take extra precautions with valuables left in vehicles.

“Take everything out of your car. Lock your doors,” he said. “Even that doesn’t always stop them. People are leaving their purses behind, and now these criminals have access to IDs, Social Security numbers, credit cards, debit cards, and checks.”

Call for Public Assistance

Investigators are asking anyone who may recognize the suspects or has information about the crimes to contact the Pryor Creek Police Department.

Crimes Happening in Broad Daylight

Authorities say many of the burglaries have occurred in the middle of the day — often in busy parking lots with people nearby. Police are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behavior around businesses or vehicles.