Two men now face charges after a string of retail thefts in Encinitas put authorities on high alert. Law enforcement officials were initially called to the robbery scene at an REI store on Leucadia Boulevard on August 29, where they got the lead on a suspect fleeing in a black Audi. This vehicle was previously seen in connection with other local shoplifting cases. The man identified as Daniel Dipinto, born on April 1, 1964, was later connected to these events and now sits behind bars.

The investigation into Dipinto revealed a pattern of theft. He stole items from several stores, including coolers and designer bags, totaling nearly $7,000. He didn't just take physical items, he also stole credit card numbers. This led to the discovery of a connection between Dipinto and Omar Najera, who is accused of supplying stolen credit card info in exchange for the goods.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department detailed the operation in a statement. "During the course of their investigation, deputies from the North Coastal Sheriff's Station's Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) Unit, connected Dipinto to other thefts at businesses such as Target, REI and Dick's Sporting Goods. Among the stolen items included Yeti coolers, Legos, Tumi bags and assorted women's clothing totaling nearly $6,700. Deputies also determined Dipinto was obtaining stolen credit card numbers from another suspect, later identified as Omar Najera," reported the sheriff's department.

Najera’s arrest on Wednesday in Encinitas and Dipinto’s apprehension in Mission Valley on the same day add to the narrative of crime and consequence. Post-arrest, authorities recovered additional stolen merchandise, which only adds to the list of charges both men will face.