ODESSA, Fla. – Two men are now behind bars following a harrowing armed home invasion in Odessa that was foiled by an activated alarm and later revealed a sophisticated tracking plot.
The incident occurred on August 19, 2025, when the suspects allegedly forced the victims into their garage at gunpoint. The ordeal was abruptly interrupted when a security alarm was triggered, prompting the intruders to flee the scene before causing further harm.
In a disturbing twist to the case, detectives investigating the incident later discovered an Apple AirTag tracking device meticulously taped beneath the victims’ vehicle. This discovery suggested a premeditated and potentially long-term surveillance of the victims.
WATCH:
Thanks to intensive investigative work, law enforcement officials were able to identify both individuals allegedly involved in the attack.
Luis Charles, 26, was the first suspect taken into custody in Tampa on October 8, 2025. Two days later, Odardy Maldonado-Rodriguez, 32, was arrested in neighboring Pasco County on October 10, 2025.
Both suspects face serious charges, including Armed Burglary of a Dwelling with Assault or Battery and Armed Kidnapping Commit Felony.
READ: “Nicest Person” Woman Murders Husband In South Carolina Nursing Home
“To be ambushed at gunpoint in the very place you should feel safest is every family’s worst nightmare,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister in a statement following the arrests. “Thanks to the work of our detectives, these dangerous criminals are now behind bars where they belong, and the victims, along with our community, can rest a little easier.”
The Sheriff’s Office has not released further details regarding a motive for the invasion or how the tracking device was initially placed on the vehicle. Both suspects are currently being held pending court appearances.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
