Full Notification

DATE: November 27, 2024

ANNOUNCEMENT: Operation Smash and Grab 


SUMMARY:  Building on the success of last year’s Smash and Grab Operation, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department partnered with the California Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies to combat retail theft. Personnel will be in an undercover capacity at retail areas throughout the county. Our goal remains unchanged: to ensure the safety of our residents while disrupting and dismantling retail theft crews that prey on businesses in our area of responsibility.
 
Loss prevention professionals and managers in participating stores will contact investigators directly for real-time communication to target in-progress crimes. Sheriff’s Department personnel will also monitor parking lots surrounding the businesses, and a vehicle equipped with an Automated License Reader will be deployed throughout the operation to detect stolen vehicles and vehicles associated with ongoing criminal investigations.

The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office plays a crucial role in our efforts. They will continue working closely with our investigators, reviewing reports, filing cases, and informing us of any follow-up investigation needed. This collaboration ensures a streamlined review and filing process, enhancing our ability to bring perpetrators to justice.
 
Key Statistics from Operation Smash and Grab (December 2023 – November 2024):
• Search Warrants Issued: 12
• Felony Arrests: 166
• Misdemeanor Arrests: 360
• Value of Recovered Property: $205,155.63
 
“This holiday season, our office remains focused on ensuring the safety of our community and businesses. By working with law enforcement and businesses across the county, we will seek prosecution and accountability for individuals who engage in unlawful behavior such as retail theft crimes, buying or selling stolen property, or organized crime schemes at multiple locations.” - District Attorney Jason Anderson.
 
“In San Bernardino County, our commitment is to protect our retail stores and small businesses impacted by theft. As a result of the passing of Prop 36, the Sheriff’s Department will no longer issue citations to offenders, and we will jail those who choose to commit retail theft. This commitment is our priority, ensuring the safety and security of the residents and retailers in our county.” - Sheriff-Coroner Shannon D. Dicus

Refer: Public Affairs Division

Phone No. (909) 387-3700

SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department