Authorities have arrested 117 suspects in a major crackdown on retail theft across California.
The daylong operation, led by California Highway Patrol troopers, was conducted Dec. 20 amid an increase in thefts during the holiday period, officials said.
Law enforcement agencies from across the state participated in this massive event, which resulted in the arrest of 117 people for organized retail theft and related crimes.
Officers recovered 767 stolen items valued at more than $38,000. Photos of those arrested showed a collection of stolen clothes, shoes and perfume. Three stolen vehicles and two illegal firearms were also recovered.
The charges against the suspects include petty theft, grand theft, organized retail crime, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and motor vehicle theft.
A collection of stolen merchandise, including clothing, shoes, perfume and more, was discovered during a statewide retail theft crackdown. (California Highway Patrol) Three stolen vehicles were recovered during a statewide retail theft enforcement operation. (California Highway Patrol) During a statewide retail theft enforcement operation, a collection of stolen merchandise was discovered, including clothing, shoes, perfume, and more. (California Highway Patrol) During a statewide retail theft enforcement operation, a collection of stolen merchandise was discovered, including clothing, shoes, perfume, and more. (California Highway Patrol)
“Through aggressive enforcement efforts and strong partnerships with local law enforcement and retailers, we were able to protect our state’s businesses and consumers during one of the busiest times of the year,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Durie. said.
“The state is committed to protecting consumers, especially as they undertake their last-minute shopping before the holidays,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said. “I am proud of the efforts of CHP and local law enforcement to protect consumers and businesses across California.”
The crackdown was a joint effort between 10 law enforcement agencies and 56 retail partners. Related agencies include:
Hemet Police Department Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Los Angeles Police Department Glendale Police Department Bakersfield Police Department Woodland Police Department Walnut Creek Police Department Livermore Police Department San Ramon Police Department
CHP’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force was created in 2019 and has been involved in more than 3,200 investigations, arresting more than 3,500 suspects and recovering $51.3 million worth of stolen property.
Anyone with information regarding organized retail theft is encouraged to call the California Highway Patrol at 1-800-835-5247.
