Howard county police recover stolen tools valued up to $5 million — Police at Crime Scene

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.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News