(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) said two prolific offenders have been convicted after a months-long investigation.

EPSO said over four months beginning in November 2023 detectives investigated a series of burglaries, motor vehicle thefts, and criminal trespass-auto incidents in the Cimarron Hills and Security-Widefield areas.

Detectives investigated a pattern of thefts where suspects used garage door openers from vehicles to get access to homes. EPSO said stolen items ranged from personal valuables to high-value property such as snowboarding/skiing equipment, firearms, electronics, and tools.

Detectives later identified and arrested 22-year-old Gary Cantrell and 24-year-old Adam Montoya. When detectives executed a search warrant they found a significant amount of the stolen property and it was returned to the rightful owners, according to EPSO.

Gary Cantrell, Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriff’s Office

Adam Montoya, Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriff’s Office

“I am proud of the investigative efforts and skills shown by my detectives throughout this case.  My Office is committed to finding and holding these prolific criminals accountable, ensuring victims get the justice they deserve. The length of these sentences is a testament to the quality of work and professionalism displayed by the detectives in my Office.” said Sheriff Joseph Roybal.

Both men were facing charges of various crimes such as burglary, motor vehicle theft, criminal trespass, felony theft, misdemeanor theft, and more.

Cantrell pled guilty to Burglary of a Dwelling on Aug. 27, 2024, and was sentenced to 10 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Montoya pled guilty to Burglary of a Dwelling on Jan. 21, 2025, and was sentenced to 12 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections.