Columbia, MD – Howard County police have successfully recovered 18,600 stolen construction tools, in what is considered one of the most significant theft cases in the region’s recent history. The estimated value of these tools is between $3-$5 million.
Authorities have determined that the tools were stolen from various retail stores, businesses, vehicles, residential properties, and construction sites primarily located in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The stolen items were largely stored in Howard County storage units and suspect they were sold at multiple locations through diverse methods.
Police have identified 155 victims and are in the process of returning the stolen items to them. Following the investigation, Jose Aceves, 52, from Jessup, has been charged with a felony theft scheme.
The remaining unrecovered tools are set to be sold at auction on November 16. Further details on the auction can be found online.
