Investigation breaks up vape shop break-in/organized vehicle theft ring across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut

LAKEVILLE — A Lakeville Police detective has led a regional investigation that connected a series of vape shop break-ins across Massachusetts and neighboring states and disrupted an organized theft ring linked to stolen vehicles.

Detective Robert Schiffer coordinated a multi-agency effort that tied two break-ins at a vape shop at 12 Harding St. to a broader pattern of organized theft in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut.

The first break-in occurred on Dec. 5, 2025, when suspects used a stolen vehicle to force entry into the business during the early morning hours. Thousands of dollars in merchandise and cash were stolen, and the building sustained extensive damage.

A second break-in, using similar methods and involving many of the same suspects, occurred on Dec. 13, 2025. In both incidents, stolen Hyundai and Kia vehicles were used.

Through an investigation, including surveillance video review, intelligence sharing and the execution of multiple search warrants, Detective Schiffer identified the suspects as being part of an organized group responsible for repeated vape shop break-ins, often targeting multiple locations in a single night.

The investigation linked incidents in Lakeville, Taunton, Acton, Bellingham, Saugus, Oxford, Waltham, Revere, Burrillville and Johnston, R.I., and East Hartford. Conn., among others. Police recovered multiple stolen motor vehicles, approximately $11,000 in stolen merchandise, and key evidence linking suspects to the break-ins.

As a result of the investigation, one suspect, 19-year-old Jokari Fuquay-Rios of Chelsea, was arraigned on Thursday, Jan. 29, in Wareham District Court and is currently being held without bail until a pre-trial conference on Feb. 25.

Arrest warrants and criminal complaints have been sought for additional suspects.

Lakeville Police worked closely with regional and state law enforcement throughout the investigation, including detectives and officers from agencies including Taunton, Acton, Saugus, Cambridge, Boston, Waltham, Revere, Massachusetts State Police, the Department of Youth Services, Burrillville, Johnston, East Hartford, and regional intelligence partners at the New England State Police Information Network (NESPIN), MACrimeNet and Southeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (SEMLEC).

“This investigation would not have been possible without regional cooperation and the dedication of motivated detectives who all wanted the same outcome,” said Detective Schiffer. “Everyone involved worked together, shared information, and stayed focused on holding those responsible accountable.”

The investigation remains active and additional charges are expected. One suspect remains outstanding and is described as a Hispanic female, approximately five feet tall, believed to be from the Boston or Revere area.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Lakeville Police Department at 508-947-4422.

These are allegations. All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.