In a significant clampdown on retail theft, the Austin Police Department's North Metro Tactical Response Unit has netted several suspects, linked to a string of high-value thefts. A detailed statement released by APD outlined the culmination of an investigation that began in early September 2024, spearheaded by an Organized Retail Crime Investigator from Victoria's Secret who pinpointed three individuals tied to over a dozen theft incidents.

The investigation fanned out to capture more culprits implicated in similar crimes across Central Texas, painting a broader picture of organized retail theft plaguing the region. Sofia Hernandez, Angelica Chavez, Joe Garcia, and Lisa Vasquez, all hailing from Austin, were charged with various theft-related offenses. In a sweep that reinforced the reach of the law, officers executed two residential search warrants, uncovering around 2,000 pieces of merchandise suspected to be stolen, an estimate that floats at about $57,000 in value, and a stolen handgun, according to the City of Austin.

The suspects apprehended carry varied charges. Sofia Hernandez, a 20-year-old Hispanic female, faces multiple felony counts of theft. Angelica Chavez, 24, was also charged with multiple felony counts of theft. The suspects' list continues with Joe Garcia, a 37-year-old Hispanic male, who shoulders multiple counts of felony theft and robbery by threat. Lastly, 30-year-old Lisa Vasquez stands accused of a felony count of organized retail theft, per the City of Austin, connecting her directly to the strategic orchestration of these crimes.