Joint Concord Police/CHP operation recovers $350K in stolen retail merchandise
OAKLAND, CA (Nov. 15, 2023) — On November 7, 2023, CHP Golden Gate Division’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force, in collaboration with the Valley Division Investigative Services Unit (ISU) and the Concord Police Department, successfully executed search warrants in the areas of Oakland and Galt.
Law enforcement conducted the operations based on prior intelligence. The intel indicated illegal fencing activities at the Oakland residence, associated with known suspects. Investigators suspected additional stolen retail merchandise was stored in a box van and a trailer located in Galt.
During the search of the Oakland residence, investigators uncovered stolen retail merchandise. They also found a loaded handgun. Officers apprehended the primary suspects and subsequently booked them into the Alameda County jail. The targets face a range of charges. These include California Penal Code (CPC) 487(a)- Grand Theft, CPC 496(a)- Possession of Stolen Property, and CPC 182 – Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect had leased a storage facility in Oakland. This lead to the issuance of an additional search warrant. This subsequent search yielded more stolen retail merchandise. Investigators also located and seized $17,344.00 as proceeds from illicit criminal activity. Additionally, while inspecting several vehicles containing stolen items, investigators discovered a second loaded handgun.
Seized vehicles
In Galt, Valley ISU Investigators successfully located and seized two vehicles, which were found to contain a substantial quantity of stolen retail merchandise. With the assistance of retail personnel in inventorying the stolen items, it was estimated that the total value of the recovered merchandise exceeded $350,000.00.
The successful execution of the search warrants exemplifies the effectiveness of partnerships and collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, and the retail industry in combating and dismantling organized retail crime networks within California.
The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.