Houston, TX – A Chilean national was arrested in Texas after allegedly using a sophisticated radio jamming device to disrupt law enforcement communications during a burglary. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Ignacio Castillo Contreras, now faces serious charges, including residential burglary and interfering with a government-licensed radio frequency.
According to West University Place Police, officers responded to a reported break-in at a home on the 6400 block of Sewanee Avenue on February 8. Upon arrival, they discovered Contreras in possession of an advanced radio frequency jamming device, which rendered their handheld radios, body-worn cameras, and even vehicle key fobs temporarily useless.
Tech expert Juan Guevara Torres explained that such jamming devices work by emitting high-intensity signals that disrupt normal communication channels, effectively cutting off the officers’ ability to coordinate their response. “Whoever did this has some tactical knowledge on how to use this device and where to place them,” Torres stated.
During his probable cause hearing, Contreras admitted that he is not a U.S. citizen and has only been in Houston for a few months, living in a hotel. Law enforcement officials are now investigating whether he acted alone or as part of a larger operation.
Former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg warned of the dangers posed by criminals using such technology. “If an ordinary burglar can jam police communications, imagine the damage someone with truly malicious intent—like a terrorist—could cause,” Ogg said.
This alarming case has raised serious concerns about the accessibility and potential misuse of radio jamming devices. Authorities are urging lawmakers to take action against illegal frequency interference, emphasizing the need to protect first responders from future threats.
Contreras remains in custody as the investigation continues.
