A Cuban couple suspected of a daring armed robbery that resulted in the theft of nearly two million dollars' worth of jewelry and gold from a store in Nashville, Tennessee, was apprehended at a Miami Beach hotel over the weekend. The police identified the suspects as Milleni García, 38, and Orlando Valdés Hernández, 34, both residing on Quail Roost Drive in the unincorporated area of South Miami Heights, Miami-Dade County.
Details of the Nashville Heist
According to law enforcement, on October 23, García and Valdés Hernández entered Dubai Jewelry, located in a southeastern Nashville shopping center. Initially posing as customers, they suddenly brandished firearms, threatening the staff before seizing a substantial amount of gold and other valuable items. The duo, aided by an unidentified accomplice, managed to steal goods valued at 1.7 million dollars.
Local media reported that during the brazen heist, the thieves used pepper spray and forced the employees into a back room before making their escape.
Swift Apprehension in Miami Beach
On October 27, just four days after the robbery, officers apprehended the Cuban pair at the Grand Beach Hotel, a four-star establishment situated at 4835 Collins Avenue in Mid-Beach. The operation led to the recovery of jewelry, cash, and a blonde wig, as reported by WKRN.
This successful arrest was the result of an "extensive investigation and collaborative efforts" between Miami Beach police and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, authorities confirmed.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday morning, García and Valdés Hernández are detained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK), pending extradition to Tennessee. Valdés Hernández faces charges including aggravated kidnapping with a weapon and grand theft, while Judge Mindy S. Glazer has denied him bail. García is accused of theft, theft with force, and facilitating aggravated kidnapping with a weapon.
"We’ve successfully removed two very dangerous individuals from our streets; our undercover officers spotted them and made the arrest," stated Christopher Bess, spokesperson for the Miami Beach police.
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department is actively searching for the third suspect, who remains at large. Authorities urge anyone with information about the case to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.