Gautier, MS (BuzzReport) — Officers with the Gautier Police Department arrested a 28-year-old man Tuesday night in connection with a series of vehicle burglaries at local apartment complexes.
According to authorities, Roberto Molina Jr., of Gautier, was taken into custody on February 24, 2026, at approximately 10:00 p.m. Officers encountered Molina while responding to an unrelated call for service and, during the course of that interaction, developed information linking him to multiple recent vehicle burglaries.
Investigators determined the incidents occurred at apartment complexes along Martin Bluff Road. Detectives conducted follow-up inquiries that led to the recovery of stolen property believed to be connected to several of the reported cases.
Police have not released details regarding the total number of vehicles involved or the value of the recovered property. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be forthcoming.
Authorities are urging residents to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of becoming victims of vehicle-related crimes.
Residents are reminded to:
- Lock vehicle doors at all times
- Remove valuables from inside vehicles
- Avoid leaving items in plain view
- Report suspicious activity immediately
Officials emphasized that vehicle burglaries are often crimes of opportunity and that simple precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of theft.
Anyone with information related to these incidents is encouraged to contact the Gautier Police Department Investigations Division.
All individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.