July 11, 2025 #1 Local News, Information and Event Source for the Century City/Westwood areas.

California Attorney General Announces Charges in Organized Retail Theft Case

Three Suspects Accused of Targeting High-End Retail Stores Across the State

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced charges against three individuals allegedly involved in a spree of organized retail theft, robbery, and grand theft targeting high-end retail establishments across California.

According to Bonta, the crimes occurred between December 12, 2022, and February 12, 2024, resulting in commercial burglaries and attempted burglaries in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, Alameda, and Santa Clara Counties. These incidents collectively inflicted losses exceeding $300,000 on the targeted stores.

The investigation, led by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Organized Retail Task Force (ORCTF), involved collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the San Diego Police Department, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, and various municipal police departments. The California Department of Justice (DOJ) filed multiple felony charges against the suspects, encompassing organized retail theft, robbery, and grand theft.

“Organized retail theft harms businesses, retailers, and consumers – and puts the public at risk,” remarked Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Organized retail crime has been plaguing our state for far too long. I want to thank our local law enforcement partners for their work in apprehending the suspects in this case.”

The suspects are accused of employing a smash-and-grab modus operandi, dashing into stores, seizing high-value items such as purses, and swiftly fleeing the premises. Allegedly, they forcibly removed merchandise, including items from luxury brands like Burberry, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, collectively valued at approximately $309,752.

Chief of Detectives Hamilton from the Los Angeles Police Department emphasized the significance of regional cooperation in combating organized retail theft. He stated, “A strong economy and a feeling of safety should not be disrupted in any community by a delinquent few. We will continue to strengthen public safety and build trust with our businesses and consumers alike.”

While criminal charges have been filed against the suspects, it’s crucial to note that these charges are merely allegations. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Organized retail crime poses a significant challenge not only in California but across the United States. A 2020 national survey revealed that U.S. retailers lose approximately $700,000 for every $1 billion in sales to organized retail crime. Attorney General Bonta has underscored his commitment to addressing this issue and encourages the public to report complaints and provide tips through the California Department of Justice website at oag.ca.gov/retail-crime.

in News
Related Posts

L.A. Louver Marks David Hockney’s 88th with Exhibit

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

Hockney, a British artist born in 1937, gained fame with the British Pop Art movement and later became known for...

Suspect Arrested in Shoe Retail Theft Spree Across LA County

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

During the search, police recovered two firearms and a significant quantity of merchandise The Los Angeles Police Department’s Organized Retail...

California Seizes $476 Million in Illegal Cannabis

July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

The operation, described as UCETF’s largest to date, involved support from multiple state agencies The state confiscated $476 million worth...

The Reservoir Play Opens at Geffen Playhouse

July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

The play follows Josh, whose life is unraveling, as he receives unconventional support from his grandparents. Their unsolicited advice, judgments,...

Angelini Grill Opens Limited Run at Peninsula Beverly Hills

July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

The menu includes tableside Dover Sole, lobster salad, and a signature pasta tasting A new culinary collaboration, Angelini Grill, launched...

Father-Daughter Authors to Host Book Signing to Aid Fire-Affected Women

July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

Ten percent of proceeds from book and art sales will benefit the Pacific Palisades Rebuilding Fund, a nonprofit initiative created...

Metro Reports Crime Drop, Higher Rider Satisfaction, and Progress on Major Projects

July 9, 2025

July 9, 2025

The Authority said the drop in violent incidents—down to the lowest level since May 2019—coincided with more uniformed personnel and...

The Bar at Century Plaza to Celebrate National Caviar Day with Exclusive Tastings

July 9, 2025

July 9, 2025

The seven-hour event will feature exclusive caviar tastings and champagne pairings The Bar at Fairmont Century Plaza will host a...

Westwood Village Cooking Class to Showcase Spanish Paella

July 9, 2025

July 9, 2025

The class will guide participants through crafting both seafood and vegetarian versions of the iconic Spanish dish Food enthusiasts will...

Unmasking ICE: Senators Push for Visible IDs After Secretive LA Immigration Raids

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Bill Requires Federal Agents to Display Visible Identification During Raids U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) on...

Bacio di Latte’s Beverly Hills Gelateria Debut Blends Italian Tradition with California Cool

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Gelateria Features In-House Gelato, Espresso Drinks, and Decadent Signature Flavors Bacio di Latte has officially opened its latest U.S. flagship...

Housing for Health Chief Appointed to Lead Unified Homeless Services Department

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Veteran Housing Advocate to Oversee Streamlined LA County Services The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday confirmed the...

Brentwood Feels Impact as Feds Slash Office Leases Across Los Angeles

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

New Tracker Reveals Over 70,000 Square Feet Cut in 2025 Alone Los Angeles County’s office market is experiencing a fresh...

Lost Bunny on the Beat: Beverly Hills Police Seek Owner of Wayward Rabbit

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Fluffy Wanderer Found Near City Hall, BHPD Caring for Missing Pet The Beverly Hills police are caring for a domestic...

Interview: The Dinah Creator Mariah Hanson on Legacy, Change, and the Future of Queer Celebration

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

After 34 Groundbreaking Years, Hanson Reflects on Joy, Power, and Her Final Dinah  We spoke with Mariah Hanson, the creator...