An 18-year-old Eagle Mountain resident is facing 31 criminal charges after police say he and two juvenile accomplices attempted to break into multiple vehicles across Eagle Mountain in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 23.
According to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, Colton Roger Jones and the two juveniles targeted at least 18 vehicles between 1 and 4 a.m., successfully gaining access to 16 of them. The trio reportedly stole over $1,500 worth of property—including a financial card that they later tried to use at a McDonald’s restaurant on the way home.
The group was captured on neighborhood surveillance cameras, seen traveling in a dark-colored Tesla. One stolen item had a tracking device inside, which helped deputies trace the suspects to a home in Tooele. A search warrant led to the recovery of the stolen property, and Jones was identified as the driver.
Charges and Community Impact
Jones now faces 18 counts of vehicle burglary, as well as additional charges including theft, criminal mischief, and unlawful use of a financial card. The two juveniles involved have not been named publicly due to their age.
This incident has sparked renewed concerns across Cedar Valley about vehicle security and neighborhood safety. With warm weather on the horizon and more people out and about, authorities are reminding residents to stay alert.
What Does It Mean to Stay Vigilant?
“Be vigilant” is a phrase law enforcement uses often—but what does it really mean? In a local context, vigilance means staying aware of what’s happening in your neighborhood and taking simple but important steps to prevent crime. You don’t need to patrol the streets, but staying tuned in and proactive can make a big difference.
Here are a few easy actions that can help reduce your risk and keep our Northern Utah County communities safer:
1. Lock Your Vehicle – Every Time
Many vehicle burglaries happen when cars are left unlocked. Even in quiet areas like Eagle Mountain, Fairfield, or Saratoga Springs, it’s important to lock your doors—even if you’re just running inside for a few minutes.
2. Remove Valuables
Never leave purses, electronics, wallets, or spare keys in your car, especially in plain sight. These items are often what burglars are looking for.
3. Install Outdoor Cameras or Motion Lights
Home security systems and smart doorbell cameras have helped solve many local cases. Motion-activated lights can also deter would-be thieves from approaching.
4. Get to Know Your Neighbors
A close-knit neighborhood is a safer neighborhood. If you know what’s normal on your street, you’re more likely to notice when something’s off—and your neighbors will do the same for you.
5. Report Suspicious Behavior
If something doesn’t feel right—like a car slowly cruising your street late at night or someone checking car doors—report it to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office. You can call the non-emergency number at (801) 794-3970.
Looking Ahead
As Eagle Mountain continues to grow, incidents like this are a reminder that safety starts at home. Staying alert, taking small steps to secure your property, and working together as a community can help deter criminal activity.
To stay updated on crime trends and neighborhood alerts, you can join a local neighborhood watch group if one is available in your area.
Source: Megan Brugger, “Eagle Mountain teen facing more than 30 charges after trying to break into 16 vehicles,” KUTV, March 24, 2025. https://kutv.com/news/local/eagle-mountain-teen-facing-more-than-30-charges-after-trying-to-break-into-16-vehicles
Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.