A woman in California was apprehended for possessing stolen merchandise valued at over $450,000. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) announced on Facebook that 35-year-old Claudia Cruz faces charges of organised retail crime, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy to commit crime. She is allegedly involved in a fencing operation.
Last month, CHP’s Organised Retail Crime Taskforce (ORCTF) initiated an investigation into a criminal network linked to several thefts from various Bay Area retailers. Surveillance operations enabled investigators to identify suspects connected to an Oakland-based illegal fencing operation, where stolen goods are bought and sold.
Using gathered intelligence, investigators secured search warrants for a residence and several vehicles. On 15 August, with assistance from the San Ramon Police Department, the search warrants were executed.
During the search, a significant amount of stolen merchandise was found, seized, and taken to a facility for documentation.
Further investigation revealed that Cruz leased a storage unit in Oakland. After obtaining an additional search warrant, investigators discovered more stolen goods in the storage facility.
The stolen property, mainly goods from drug stores, was estimated to be worth over $450,000. Cruz was subsequently arrested and placed in Alameda County Jail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was arrested in possession of stolen merchandise in California?
Claudia Cruz, a 35-year-old woman, was arrested.
What charges were filed against Claudia Cruz?
She was charged with organized retail crime, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy to commit crime.
How much was the stolen merchandise worth?
The stolen merchandise was worth more than $450,000.
Where was the stolen merchandise found?
The merchandise was found in a residence, multiple vehicles, and a storage facility in Oakland.
What type of goods made up the stolen merchandise?
The merchandise mainly consisted of goods sold at drug stores.