On March 19, California Attorney General Rob Bonta held a press conference to announce that the Department of Justice has charged three people accused of organizing “smash-and-grab style thefts” at high-end retail stores throughout California. From Dec. 12, 2022, to Feb.12, 2024.
“Our message to those involved in organized crime is simple,” said Bonta.
“If you steal from our businesses and put people in harm’s way; if you try to make an easy buck out of other people’s hard work, we will prosecute you,” he stated.
Bonta said the suspects were charged with 27 felony robbery and grand theft charges resulting in more than $309,000 in losses in six different counties: San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, Alameda and Santa Clara.
“I want to thank first and foremost our law enforcement partners” said Bonta at the press briefing. “We are at our best when we work together, when we collaborate, when we team up, when we share information.”
Bonta said his office will continue to crack down on organized retail crime.
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief of Detectives Alan Hamilton also celebrated the effective coordination and cooperation among various law enforcement agencies across the state.
“Organized retail theft crime is no longer local,” said Hamilton. “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, through the incredible work of our local and regional partners.”
Bonta said stores targeted in the raids included Burberry, Prada, Sunglass Hut, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, Michael Kors, Gucci, Coach, Versace, and Maison Margiela.
