Authorities have made significant headway in cracking down on a grand-scale bicycle theft operation, according to statements obtained by KTLA and a press release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The investigation, led by the LASD Major Crimes Bureau and its Cargo Criminal Apprehension Team (Cargo CATs), resulted in the recovery of nearly 300 stolen bikes, initially pilfered from ARI Bikes, a Utah-based company, on April 21. The heist, which involved 337 bicycles valued at around $1.7 million, is part of a broader probe into high-value retail and cargo thefts.
Five suspects, identified as Samvel Karapetyan, Vazgen Avagyan, Narek Badalyan, Vladimir Gyulankaryan, and Davit Grigoryan, have been arrested in connection with the scheme. They are believed to be the masterminds behind the operation, allegedly coordinating the redirection of truck drivers to improperly transport large quantities of stolen merchandise. This elaborate theft network was disrupted thanks to close work between law enforcement and community partners, which included ARI Bikes and the local biking community, who helped to significantly advance the investigation.
In a statement obtained by KTLA, Capt. Calvin Mah expressed his pride in the detectives' efforts, remarking, "We are specifically trained to investigate all major theft groups as their criminal activities adversely affect the community." Additionally, the public has been urged to offer any information regarding retail or cargo theft anonymously through the Crime Stoppers program.
The Cargo CATs' mission, as detailed in a press release from the LASD, is to rigorously work to reduce cargo theft crimes through the apprehension and prosecution of thieves and their receivers, with the goal to swiftly return the stolen property to its rightful owners. Their approach demands to closely collaborate with representatives from the private sector and other law enforcement agencies, showcasing the power of partnership amidst adversity. For those wanting to assist in these efforts, anonymous tips can be submitted through the Crime Stoppers hotline, the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or the Crime Stoppers website.
Each of the five suspects was briefly held on $100,000 bond before their release, and their case continues to unfold as investigators delve deeper into the alleged theft ring.
