The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office has arrested 63-year-old Ruben Bocanegra, also known as the "Tool Man," in connection with an organized retail theft ring. In a social media post, authorities stated that searches at two locations led to the discovery of stolen goods valued at nearly $8,300. The Sheriff's Office had been investigating the case for some time before making the arrest in San Jose.
Yesterday, authorities conducted operations across San Jose, uncovering various stolen goods at multiple locations and linking Ruben Bocanegra to the alleged theft ring. Items found included brand new tools, a premium vacuum cleaner, and a large generator, all still bearing retail tags. A second search at a storage facility revealed even more merchandise, including unopened tool sets, liquor bottles with security caps, and $5,475 in cash.
Bocanegra, known locally for selling tools, was arrested and booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail. The Santa Clara Retail Theft Task Force highlighted the operation's success on social media, stating, "We have the tools to build a case -- and find the fence!"
