HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Two Houston brothers accused in a string of burglaries across the Heights have been sentenced to just 12 days in jail, sparking outrage from community members and victims who say the punishment doesn’t fit the crime.
According to FOX 26 Houston, Ruben and Adrian Linares—both with prior criminal records—were arrested and charged earlier this month after surveillance footage allegedly showed them stealing items from residential garages in the Heights neighborhood. Despite their history of similar offenses, both men were released after serving only six days behind bars.
Arrest and Sentencing Details
Court records show that the Linares brothers pleaded guilty to burglary charges in Harris County’s 338th Criminal District Court as part of a plea agreement. Judge Michele Oncken sentenced each man to 12 days in jail, with time served accounting for half that period.
“I’ve never seen someone arrested, charged, and convicted in less than a week,” said Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers of Houston, who criticized the rapid turnaround and lenient sentence.
The decision has drawn frustration from both law enforcement and residents of the Heights community, where the brothers were allegedly seen on home surveillance video taking bicycles, ladders, and other property.
Criminal Background and Repeat Offenses
Authorities say Ruben Linares has a long criminal history, including an eight-year prison sentence in 2014 for burglary and robbery. Earlier this year, both brothers were sentenced to six months in jail on another burglary conviction.
Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen said the two men were suspected of being involved in multiple recent break-ins, calling their behavior part of an ongoing pattern of theft and property crimes.
“This is what their career has been — breaking into homes, breaking into buildings, and taking possessions,” Kahan added.
Victims Speak Out
One Heights resident, who asked not to be identified, shared footage showing the suspects stealing from her garage.
“Literally within about 20 seconds, these guys drove by and helped themselves to a bike and a ladder,” she said.
Many victims expressed disbelief that such a short sentence followed a case that appeared to have clear video evidence and involved repeat offenders.
District Attorney’s Office Responds
In a statement to FOX 26, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office defended its handling of the case, citing limitations tied to victim cooperation.
“Public safety is paramount for the Harris County District Attorney’s Office,” the statement read. “Following the law, we secured felony convictions against the two defendants who stole a ladder and a bicycle. It should be of note, the victim told law enforcement she did not want to pursue charges, which could have led to the case being dismissed.”
The DA’s office added that these felony convictions will remain on record and could lead to harsher punishment if the brothers reoffend.
Community Frustration Over Light Sentences
The case has reignited public debate over soft sentencing in repeat burglary cases in Harris County, where residents have voiced growing concerns about property crimes and the effectiveness of local justice outcomes.
While both brothers have been released, community leaders and anti-crime advocates are urging officials to review sentencing policies for habitual offenders.
“People in our neighborhoods want to feel safe,” Kahan said. “When repeat criminals spend less than a week behind bars, it sends the wrong message.”
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