In a coordinated strike against a local theft ring, Ventura County law enforcement officials made multiple arrests relating to organized retail theft and evading police. In a brief pursuit that ended near Camarillo Premium Outlets on November 27, two men were caught in connection with a spree of thefts that have troubled local retailers. According to a news release from the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, suspects Carlos Hernandez, 25, and Moises Lopez, 22, from Oxnard, now face charges related to organized retail theft and resisting arrest.
The arrest unfolded when a detective attempted a traffic stop for an equipment violation. The suspects' vehicle initially failed to yield, engaging authorities in a pursuit that included multiple traffic infractions. Once the vehicle was stopped due to traffic congestion, Hernandez and Lopez were apprehended, and a search of their vehicle unearthed a trove of stolen merchandise, some with security tags still attached. An additional bust at a barbershop on December 1 led to the arrest of a third person, Roberto Gomez, 30, also from Oxnard, for possession of an unregistered firearm and cocaine.
The investigation results are part of concerted efforts by the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit, which is dedicated to combating a range of criminal activities, including organized retail theft. The deputies found evidence suggesting that the theft crews often use intricate tactics, involving multiple roles such as lookouts and using special tools to remove EAS security tags from stolen merchandise. These tactics have been linked to significant financial losses for businesses and pose risks to unsuspecting customers and staff.
Hernandez, who has a prior charge for a similar crime, faces a $45,000 bail, while Lopez's bail is set at $50,000. As per the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, they were booked at the Ventura County Main Jail where they await trial. Information obtained during the operation led detectives to additional evidence at Lopez's residence. Gomez, found at the barbershop, is also held on $50,000 bail.
