Authorities in Southern California made a major bust, resulting in the arrest of eight suspects and the recovery of several million dollars worth of stolen merchandise. The merchandise was stolen by booster crews from various retail stores in California, Nevada, and Arizona, and then sold to “fence” operations throughout Los Angeles County. A “crime fence” is someone who knowingly buys stolen goods and sells them for profit. The stolen items included over-the-counter medication, cosmetics, personal hygiene products, and more.
During the bust, investigators also found a stolen firearm and a large amount of cash. The suspects were arrested on charges of organized retail theft and receiving stolen property and are being held on $60,000 bail each. The identities of the suspects have not been released.
The bust was carried out by the LASD’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force, which was established in response to an increase in violent and costly retail thefts in the region. The task force, made up of multiple law enforcement agencies, focuses on apprehending suspects and targeting those who purchase stolen goods online. Anyone with information on the case can contact the LASD task force via email at ORCTF@LASD.ORG or by calling 562-946-7270.
