California Woman Arrested for $450,000 Worth of Stolen Merchandise
A California woman, 35-year-old Claudia Cruz, was arrested after being found in possession of stolen merchandise valued at over $450,000, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). She faces multiple charges, including organized retail crime, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy to commit crime for her alleged involvement in a fencing operation.
In August, California Highway Patrol's Organized Retail Crime Taskforce (ORCTF) began investigating a criminal network responsible for a series of thefts targeting various retailers in the Bay Area. Using surveillance operations, the investigators identified suspects believed to be part of an Oakland-based illegal fencing operation, where criminals buy and sell stolen goods.
Investigation and Arrest
Based on the information gathered, investigators obtained search warrants for Cruz's residence and multiple vehicles. The search warrants were executed on August 15 with the assistance of the San Ramon Police Department. During the search, investigators located a significant amount of stolen merchandise, which was seized and taken to a facility for documentation.
Detectives also discovered that Cruz leased a storage facility in Oakland. After obtaining an additional search warrant for the storage facility, investigators located additional stolen merchandise, further contributing to the estimated value of the stolen property.
Ultimately, Cruz was arrested and booked into the Alameda County Jail. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of organized retail crime and the efforts made by law enforcement agencies to combat it.
