By Trend News Line 2024-05-08 03:50:59.
**Family Arrested for Alleged Organized Retail Theft**
A family from Anaheim, consisting of father Gustavo Arellano, 47, and his two sons Eduardo Arellano, 25, and Alexandri Mejorada, 23, found themselves in hot water after being arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from multiple Ross Dress For Less stores in Ventura County.
**The Alleged Theft**
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reported that the trio was accused of targeting and ransacking several Ross stores in the area. The incident came to light on April 9 when deputies responded to a theft in progress at a Ross store on Las Posas Road. The store’s loss prevention manager witnessed the suspects removing security tags and concealing merchandise on their person.
After Eduardo and Alexandri exited the store, deputies apprehended them in the parking lot. However, their father, Gustavo, managed to flee the scene. During the arrest of the sons, authorities discovered stolen clothing, shoes, and accessories valued at several hundred dollars, along with a device used to disable store security tags found in Eduardo’s pocket.
**Extent of the Theft**
In total, the Arellano family was accused of burglarizing four Ross stores and making off with approximately $3,000 worth of merchandise. Following the arrests of Eduardo and Alexandri, both were charged with one felony count of organized retail theft.
On May 5, detectives located and arrested Gustavo near his Anaheim residence. He was booked on charges of grand theft and conspiracy and is currently being held on $150,000 bail, with a court hearing scheduled for May 6.
**Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force**
The arrests were made by the newly formed Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force, consisting of detectives from various agencies within the county. The task force’s primary mission is to combat organized retail theft, vehicle/vehicle parts theft, and cargo theft that affect businesses, citizens, and communities in Ventura County.
**Ongoing Investigation**
The theft incident remains under investigation, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force at 805-383-8703. Anonymous tips can also be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
In conclusion, the Arellano family’s alleged involvement in organized retail theft serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against such crimes. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, retailers, and the public are crucial in identifying, locating, and apprehending individuals engaged in illegal activities that impact the community..
1. Family arrested for retail theft and ransacking Ventura County stores
2. Ventura County stores ransacked by family arrested for retail theft.