3 Sentenced In Burglary Ring That Targeted Indian, South Asian Homeowners

WORCESTER, MA — Three people pleaded guilty to their role in a large-scale burglary ring, involving 25 towns in Massachusetts, including multiple in Worcester County.

Jovan Lemon, 30, Paul Lemon, 31, and Steven Berdugo, 29, have been sentenced for their part in 43 break-ins across the state. The ring specifically targeted Indian and South Asian victims, according to the Middlesex District Attorney.

"The defendants believed that households of these families were more likely to contain precious metals, jewelry and other valuable heirlooms," said DA Marian Ryan.

Break-ins occurred in local towns like Boxborough, Hopkinton, Hudson and Soutborough. The Southborough Police Department said that an incident involving the ring happened in 2024 on Macneill Drive.

The reported value of everything they stole is more than $4 million.

The three defendants now face prison time. Jovan Lemon was sentenced to 10 to 13 years, while Paul Lemon and Steven Berdugo were sentenced to nine to 12 years.

Dozens of police departments across the state helped in the nine-month-long investigation, according to the DA.

"This case illustrates the ability of Massachusetts law enforcement to work together, share information in complex cases, and take action on behalf of victims," said Colonel Geoffrey Noble.