Federal prosecutors: Interstate burglary ring targeted Asian American homeowners

Federal prosecutors in New Jersey have charged eight people they say were involved in a coordinated, interstate burglary ring that targeted people of Asian descent.
The members of the crew allegedly were involved in more than 50 burglaries and stole cash, jewelry and guns. Authorities allege they gained information on potential victims by burglarizing their cars and, in some cases, placing makeshift tracking devices in the vehicles.
Many homes allegedly were broken into through unsecured second-floor windows.
“It is fitting that these arrests come at a time when society is raising awareness regarding crimes against our Asian American citizens,” FBI Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. said in a statement.
The defendants made initial court appearances Tuesday, along with a ninth person charged with tampering with evidence.
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.