Federal Judge Orders Detention in Burglary Case Targeting Asian Business Owners

A federal judge in Eugene ordered the continued detention of Derinson Martinez Grandas, a 34 year old Colombian national, after prosecutors argued he posed a flight risk and presented evidence including an alleged attempt to flee when officers served a search warrant at an Airbnb in October. Martinez Grandas is one of seven Colombian nationals indicted on conspiracy charges that federal prosecutors say stem from burglaries targeting Asian American families who operate small businesses in Oregon and Washington.

Prosecutors described the alleged conspiracy as involving sophisticated tactics, including the use of Wi Fi signal jammers and ruses such as posing as food deliveries, and said stolen high value items were recovered near the Airbnb. They said the alleged crimes occurred over a seven day span and that the investigation now includes charges filed in both federal and state court. Defense counsel disputed that there is direct evidence tying Martinez Grandas to the underlying burglaries.

Community members and the Asian American Council of Oregon attended the hearing to support detention, citing prior cases in which defendants posted bail and later fled, complicating prosecutions. The presence of community advocates underscored deep concern among small business owners and residents about targeted thefts and the challenges of securing restitution and accountability.

The judge ordered detention after weighing the prosecution evidence and flight risk concerns, a decision that speaks to broader policy questions about pretrial authority and bail procedures. The case illustrates the tension between the presumption of innocence and public safety imperatives when defendants face serious allegations and have foreign national status. Coordination between federal and state prosecutors will shape how the cases proceed and influence trial scheduling and resource allocation.

For Lane County residents the case signals heightened law enforcement attention to thefts that specifically target immigrant owned businesses, and it raises questions about prevention, victim support, and transparency in prosecutorial decisions. The investigation remains ongoing, with additional court proceedings expected as federal and state authorities pursue charges against other defendants.