San Jose's shopping aisles turned into crime scenes as two men allegedly pilfered goods worth over $75,000 from several retail stores across the city. According to the San Jose Police Department, the spate of organized retail thefts stretched from July last year to January 2024, impacting major chains like Target and Best Buy.
Investigators profiling the crime spree pinpointed Jaime Flores, 46, and Thomas Sapinoso, 37, both residents of San Jose, confirming their involvement in over 70 incidents, with retailers tallying substantial losses. In an attempt to disappear with their loot undetected, the duo reportedly used an awaiting vehicle. Caught red-handed following a grand theft at Westgate Mall, Flores was arrested on December 16, 2023, while Sapinoso was collared on January 31 on the strength of a warrant while already detained for an unrelated issue.
Funding to $8.4 million through a grant from the California Board of State and Community Corrections made these arrests possible, enabling the SJPD's Organized Retail Theft Detail to take definitive action. San Jose's top cop lauded the unit's effectiveness. "From the beginning, the Organized Retail Theft Detail has been proactive, persistent, and dedicated to combating organized retail theft in San José," stated Chief Anthony Mata. Mayor Matt Mahan echoed the sentiment, advocating for broader measures. "Our police department is working hard to make sure our business owners and shoppers are safe, and that those who are committing crimes are held accountable," Mahan told the SJPD. "The additional resources provided by the Retail Theft Grant San Jose received are starting to show results — but it’ll take more than one grant to get to the root of the problem. State-level reform is necessary to create lasting change."
The SJPD encourages anyone with information on these cases or similar incidents to step forward and reach out to Detective Beretta or Forensic Analyst Moody. Meanwhile, those willing to help the cause from the shadows can submit anonymous tips via the P3TIPS mobile app or by contacting the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers, with potential compensation for tips leading to arrests.
