On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, the Hemet Police Department’s Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Team, in collaboration with the Southwest Cities SWAT, served a search warrant at a residence in the 300 block of South Gilbert Street in the City of Hemet.
This investigation was initiated through the strong partnership between the Hemet Police Department and local retail businesses. During the course of the investigation, detectives developed information indicating that large quantities of expensive LEGO sets and other merchandise were being stolen from local retailers.
Detectives identified a suspect who was selling the stolen merchandise at a local swap meet. Further investigation revealed the activity was consistent with an organized retail theft operation. Investigators ultimately confirmed that the suspect was actively purchasing stolen goods from multiple individuals and reselling them for profit.
A search warrant was obtained and executed, resulting in the recovery of approximately $10,000 worth of stolen merchandise. During the operation, Hugo Omar Sanchez-Sanchez (37) was taken into custody and later booked into the Riverside County Jail on felony charges of Possession of Stolen Property and Organized Retail Theft.
“This operation sends a clear message that organized retail theft will not be tolerated in the City of Hemet. By recovering this stolen merchandise and returning it to our local businesses, we are not only holding offenders accountable but also helping to reduce the financial impact these crimes have on our business partners,” said Chief Michael Arellano.
The Hemet Police Department remains committed to protecting local businesses and consumers from the impacts of retail crime. The ORT Team, funded through a State of California grant provided by the Board of State and Community Corrections, will continue to conduct proactive enforcement operations to deter and prevent organized retail theft.
Anyone with information regarding organized retail theft is encouraged to contact the Hemet Police Department at (951) 765-2400 or submit anonymous tips through the Department’s smartphone application.
