Novato Police Department has reported a significant blow to organized retail crime with the recent apprehension of three suspects involved in a series of thefts. On the evening of June 7, Novato PD officers responded to a call regarding a suspected theft at Vintage Oaks retail store. Observant law enforcement quickly located and detained the trio, who were attempting to flee the location after stealing goods.

A subsequent search of the suspect's vehicle unearthed a stash of stolen merchandise valued at thousands of dollars, along with illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia. Those arrested in connection to the scheme are Stephen Edwards, 34, of Eureka; Said El Jamali, 33, of Mountain View; and Amanda Edwards-Evers, 46, of Eureka. The investigation, aided by the tactical cooperation of Target's Loss Prevention Team, uncovered that the items were being stolen for resale online, in a calculated effort to turn a profit.

The culprits have been booked into Marin County Jail on charges that include felony Organized Retail Theft with intent to sell and possession of a controlled substance, Fentanyl, along with possession of drug paraphernalia. The Novato Police commend the rapid response and critical assistance of all affected retail stores in the area, which proved pivotal to the recovery of the stolen goods.

Novato Police stressed the importance of community vigilance against suspicious activities. Residents are urged to contact the police immediately if they notice anything out of the ordinary, providing detailed descriptions of the suspects, their vehicles, and travel directions where possible. "Stay safe Novato!" concludes the Novato Police, echoing the department's commitment to public safety and crime prevention in the local community.