In February 2025, LASD/MCB Organized Retail Crimes Task Force (ORCTF) detectives collaborated with various retailers to address the ongoing theft of over-the-counter medications, cosmetics, hygiene products, miscellaneous clothing items, high end handbags, household items, fragrances, and scented candles. The merchandise was stolen by booster crews from various stores and was transported to locations in Los Angeles and South Gate where they were sold off to various “fence” operations. ORCTF detectives, partnered with loss prevention retail investigators to identify booster crews and fencing operations. A multi-location search warrant operation concluded with the arrest of seven suspects and a large amount of evidence was recovered.
The stolen property is estimated to be worth approximately four million in U.S. Currency. Additionally, a large sum of U.S. currency was seized during the operation. Seventeen separate retailers were affected by these thefts. Some of the retailers that detectives partnered with were from Target, ULTA Beauty, CVS, Walgreens, Nordstroms, Bath & Body Works, Macy’s, and TJ Maxx. The partnership made an impact on these illegal organizations.
The suspects were arrested and booked on charges of Organized Retail Theft; 490.4(a)(1) P.C., Organized Retail Theft; 490.4(a)(4) P.C., Grand Theft; 487(a) P.C., and Receiving Stolen Property; 496(a) P.C.
To combat organized retail theft, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department formed the Organized Retail Crimes Task Force (ORCTF) in September 2023. The task force is composed of three teams: ORCTF, Cargo Criminal Apprehension Team (CCATS), and the Burglary and Robbery Task Force (BRTF). They operate out of LASD’s Major Crimes Bureau and are dedicated to investigating, identifying, and apprehending suspect(s) of organized retail crimes.
Detectives work in conjunction with local law enforcement agencies, other organized retail crime task forces, and federal partners to address retail theft incidents.
If anyone has information regarding retail theft, please contact the Organized Retail Crimes Task Force at ORCTF@LASD.ORG, or 562-946-7270.
