Thirteen individuals have been arrested in connection with a retail theft bust at the popular Victoria Gardens shopping mall in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The operation, conducted by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies, took place on April 19th.
During the operation, deputies spotted and arrested 13 suspects linked to retail thefts. The authorities also seized approximately $10,926 worth of stolen property, including beauty products, accessories, backpacks, wallets, and athletic clothing.
The bust was part of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Operation SMASH & Grab, which targets violent and costly retail theft crimes involving organized crime groups. Authorities stated that these criminal groups use intimidation tactics and mob mentality, creating an unsafe and uncomfortable shopping environment for residents.
Six of the arrested suspects face felony charges, while the other seven face misdemeanor charges. The operation involved multiple agencies, including the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department – Gangs/Narcotics Division, Rancho Cucamonga Station, San Bernardino County Probation Department, Homeland Security Investigations, California Highway Patrol, and the San Bernardino Police Department.
