Felony charges have been filed against three individuals in connection with a suspected identity theft operation that allegedly facilitated an organized retail crime scheme across seven counties in California. The investigation, initiated by a referral from a Signet Jeweler’s Corporate Fraud Investigator, was led by the California Department of Justice and involved collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Santa Maria Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol, and Westminster Police Department.
“These arrests are the result of excellent collaboration between HSI, private industry, state and local law enforcement partners,” stated ICE Homeland Security Investigations Orange County Assistant Special Agent in Charge Christopher Bracken. “HSI will work tirelessly with our partners in California to ensure that those who commit fraud will be held accountable.”
The suspects reportedly used stolen identities to apply for store credit cards, which were then used to purchase merchandise without any intention of repayment. This activity spanned Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Alameda, San Mateo, and Santa Clara Counties.
Following the investigation's findings, the Department of Justice filed a 34-count felony complaint against the three defendants. The charges include organized retail theft, grand theft, and identity theft involving 13 victims.
“I am committed to using the full force of the California Department of Justice to fight organized retail crime both in the field and in the courtroom,” said Attorney General for California Rob Bonta. “This was not a one-off shoplifting offense; it was a malicious, coordinated scheme. These crimes hurt our businesses and pose a serious threat to our communities.”
Between March 2023 and July 2023, the defendants allegedly acquired over $100,000 worth of merchandise from high-end retail stores and Harbor Freight retailers through fraudulent means.
“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is deeply committed to tackling organized retail crime through strategic multiagency collaboration,” commented Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Detective Division Chief Joe Mendoza. “By working closely with our local, state, and federal partners, we continue to strengthen our efforts.”
It is important to note that an individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
A copy of the criminal complaint related to this case is available for public access along with photos from the investigation.
