A massive takedown has occurred in Southern California, the culprits being a cargo theft ring responsible for over $500,000 in property losses across several businesses. According to a news release on Monday from the Ventura County Sheriff's Office (VCSO), the crime spree spanned from December 16th, 2024, through January 5th, 2025.
Harbor Freight Distribution Center, Postal Magic, Custom Packaging Supply, and Plush Beds were some of the businesses that fell victim to this calculated series of thefts. Several suspects have now been apprehended, the thieves operating out of their jurisdiction, targeting cargo-laden semi-trucks and trailers.
Detectives were able to track the movement of stolen cargo to locations in both San Diego and South Gate, with the final destinations of the goods reportedly in Tijuana, Mexico. With the execution of search warrants at six locations, the VCSO, along with several other law enforcement agencies, recovered an estimated $1.5 million in stolen cargo, as well as narcotics, firearms, and bulk currency.
As per the detailed narrative, the arrested include Victor Alvarez, Brenda Alvarez, Mauricio Heriberto Gachicoa, and Otto Javier Rivas, each held on $250,000 bail. While authorities have an arrest warrant for Jose Antonio Hurtado-Bernal, Luis Rivera is already in custody for an unrelated case. Allegedly, these individuals, inverting the traditional channels of commerce, sold the stolen goods at "fence" locations before their exportation to Mexico.
The VCSO has made it clear that the investigation is ongoing, with additional suspects at large and the intent to bring all involved in the criminal network to justice. The community is urged to remain vigilant and to report any related incidents to Detective Kenneth Ledesma or Detective Song by contacting the VCSO at (805) 388-5115.
