WPBN: During a significant crackdown on retail theft that took place across the state of California, the authorities detained 117 people.
Officials stated that the daylong operation, which was led by the California Highway Patrol, took place on December 20 in response to an increase in the number of thefts that occurred throughout the Christmas season.
Numerous law enforcement agencies from all throughout the state took part in the massive event, which ultimately led to the arrest of 117 individuals for organized retail theft and other charges related to the crime.
Officers were able to retrieve 767 goods that had been taken, with a total value of more than $38,000. Photographs taken during the arrests reveal a variety of items that were stolen, including fragrances, shoes, and clothing. There were also two illegal firearms and three automobiles that had been stolen that were discovered.
The individuals under investigation were charged with a variety of offenses, including auto theft, petty theft, grand theft, organized retail crime, and felon in possession of a handgun.
“Through proactive enforcement operations and strong partnerships with local law enforcement and retailers, we were able to protect the state’s businesses and consumers during one of the busiest times of the year,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee stated.
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“The state stands committed to protecting consumers, especially as they go about the final shopping sprint before the holiday season,” Governor Gavin Newsom stated. “I’m proud of the efforts of CHP and local law enforcement to protect consumers and businesses throughout California.”
In order to carry out the crackdown, ten different law enforcement agencies and fifty-six different retail partners worked together. Among the participating agencies were:
- 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
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The Organized Retail Crime Task Force of the California Highway Patrol was established in 2019, and since then, it has been involved in more than 3,200 investigations, which have resulted in the arrest of more than 3,500 people and the seizure of products worth $51.3 million.
CHP has not disclosed the identity of the individuals under suspicion. Calling the California Highway Patrol at 1-800-835-5247 is strongly urged for anyone who may have information regarding thefts committed by organized retail groups.
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