A Salt Lake City man with an extensive criminal history is now facing new charges after prosecutors linked him to a burglary at the Sundance Catalog Outlet Store earlier this summer. Joseph Richard Jimenez, Jr., 55, is accused of breaking into the Highland Drive location and stealing multiple pieces of jewelry in an early morning smash-and-grab incident.
According to charging documents filed in 3rd District Court, Jimenez has been arrested 33 times and has 21 prior convictions, many involving theft or fraud-related offenses. Prosecutors say the latest charges stem from a burglary reported on July 4, when employees arrived at the store and discovered a shattered front window, damaged display cases, and several missing jewelry pieces.
Investigators reviewed surveillance video that allegedly shows a man arriving at the store around 3:30 a.m., throwing a brick through the front window, and then punching and kicking the glass to create a large enough opening to enter. Once inside, the suspect reportedly used the same brick to break multiple display cases before selecting items and placing them in a large black backpack. The footage also captured what investigators described as the suspect’s “distinct way of moving through the store,” which helped officers identify him.
Police also recovered DNA evidence from blood found on broken display cases and window frames. That forensic evidence was tested and matched to Jimenez, providing additional confirmation of his involvement, according to investigators.
Jimenez is charged with theft, a second-degree felony; burglary, a third-degree felony; and criminal mischief, a class B misdemeanor.
For official information regarding Utah criminal court procedures, visit the Utah Courts, and for general guidance on crime prevention, refer to the National Crime Prevention Council.
