California files charges against alleged smash-and-grab ring. Two thefts were in Fresno
At least two counts related to smash-and-grab retail thefts in Fresno are among the dozens announced Friday, according to the California Attorney General’s Office.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta said nine people were charged related to a retail theft ring that hit multiple stores in 11 counties beginning last year. Eight of them have been arrested and one is at large, according to a news release.
California Highway Patrol officers recovered more than $200,000 in stolen goods in the investigation, according to a news release.
Two counts were connected each to JC Penneys and Macy’s in Fresno, the release said, but the 30 counts also included theft at Columbia Sportswear, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Lululemon, to name a few.
The people charged in Los Angeles County Superior Court stole and transported the goods internationally, investigators said.
They were charged with conspiracy to commit a felony, organized retail theft, grand theft, possession of stolen property and a special allegation that the theft totaled more than $100,000.
Three additional suspects were charged Tuesday with possession of stolen merchandise, the release said.
“Organized retail theft hurts businesses, employees, and the public — and this criminal activity will not be tolerated in California,” Bonta said in the release. “Today we take another step toward tackling this issue by announcing the arrests and felony charges against individuals alleged to be participants in an organized criminal scheme targeting retailers throughout our state.”
A number of Bay Area stores saw the smash-and-grab style of crime late last year, including a Nordstrom in Walnut Creek and a mall in Hayward. Fresno has seen a few already this year.
This story was originally published March 25, 2022 at 12:35 PM.
