Coconut Creek Burglary Surveillance Operation of Couple Leads to Multi-Agency Chase

by Ryan Yousefi February 23, 2026

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Johnny Batista and Mayeli Tacoronte Perrote. {BSO}

A Coconut Creek surveillance operation by BSO led to a multi-agency pursuit into Miami-Dade County, ending with the arrest of a couple accused of burglarizing work vans and stealing high-value tools.

According to a Broward Sheriff’s Office arrest report, Johnny Batista, 19, of Lauderhill, and his girlfriend, Mayeli Tacoronte Perrote, 18, of Homestead, were taken into custody on February 15 following a surveillance operation by BSO’s Burglary Apprehension Team and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Apprehension Team.

Investigators say deputies were tracking a vehicle tied to the crimes when they observed the occupants, later identified as Batista and Perrote, burglarize three work vans in the area of 6601 Lyons Road. Officers reported seeing Batista smash vehicle windows and remove tools before returning to the vehicle

According to the probable cause affidavit, multiple high-value tools were stolen from the vans. Victims reported losses totaling tens of thousands of dollars. One listed victim was Gary The Plumber LLC of Coconut Creek.

Deputies say the couple fled southbound, leading authorities into Miami-Dade County. A grappler device was deployed during the pursuit, but it was unsuccessful. The pair then eventually drove to a residence in Homestead, where they bailed out of the vehicle.

Batista fled on foot but was later located by law enforcement. Perrote was detained at the scene. Authorities say numerous stolen tools were found inside their vehicle.

Records show Perrote told investigators she believed they were going to a park and that she remained in the vehicle while Batista broke into the vans. She told deputies this was the first time she had been present during one of the alleged burglaries and said she did not know what he did with the stolen tools.

Batista faces multiple felony charges. In addition, records show he is being held on an out-of-state warrant from Tarrant County, Texas, for organized criminal activity, and authorities there have indicated they intend to extradite.

Perrote was also arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

The case remains under investigation.

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Author Profile

Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiples outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.