East Dallas serial burglar with nearly two decades of criminal activity has finally been caught after his latest heist at a local record store. For small business owners in the area, it’s not just an arrest — it’s cause for celebration.
Alfredo Morones, 50, was arrested by Dallas police in connection with a November 17 break-in at the Rec Shop in East Dallas, where authorities say he made off with approximately $1,000 in cash. Surveillance footage linked Morones to the crime, leading to his arrest.
This wasn’t Morones’ first run-in with the law — not by a long shot. Records from the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office show he has accumulated 18 mugshots since 2003, establishing what appears to be a lengthy criminal career spanning nearly 20 years. He’s currently being held without bond for parole violations, according to police documents.
A Pattern of Break-ins
Investigators have also connected Morones to an attempted burglary at Humble Simply Good Pies, another small business in the area. While that attempt netted him only about $40 worth of tools, it left the bakery with several hundred dollars in lock repair costs — the kind of expense that can hit small business owners particularly hard.
“It’s definitely a lot of relief this guy’s off the streets,” said Ben Sharon, owner of the Rec Shop. “I mean the guy looked like a career criminal. The way he was doing stuff, you could tell it wasn’t his first one and definitely wasn’t gonna be his last one, so I’m glad they got him off.”
How significant is Morones’ arrest for the East Dallas business community? Enough that they’re planning to throw a party.
“Oh yeah, it’s a celebration. We’re gonna get together and have a little celebration drink,” Sharon told FOX 4.
Broader Investigation Continues
Dallas police are now investigating whether Morones might be connected to other recent burglaries in the area. The arrest comes amid growing concerns about retail theft and break-ins affecting small businesses already struggling with rising costs and economic pressures.
For Sharon and other business owners, the arrest represents more than just justice — it’s a chance to invite customers back without worry. “If you’re in this area, come out, support everybody around, we’d appreciate it. We got our burglar, he’s gone. You’re free to come out and spend money with your small businesses,” Sharon stated.
With the holiday shopping season in full swing, East Dallas merchants are hoping the removal of this particular threat might encourage more foot traffic in an area where small businesses depend heavily on community support.
While Morones awaits his day in court, the small business owners he allegedly targeted are breathing a collective sigh of relief — and perhaps raising a glass to the officers who caught him.
