Hemet, California – On Saturday, December 14, 2024, The Hemet Police Department’s Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Team conducted an Organized Retail Theft Operation at Harbor Freight in the City of Hemet.
This undercover operation to fight retail crime resulted in 3 adult arrests for several theft related charges, and the stolen merchandise was ultimately returned to the retailer.
During this operation, detectives were also able to cultivate leads on a previous retail theft felony case they had been investigating involving another local retailer.
The success of these operations are attributed to the strong partnership between the Hemet Police Department and our local retailers. Operations similar to these will continue every month of the year and have been increased throughout the holiday shopping season in the city.
Chief of Police Michael Arellano said, “The men and women of the Hemet Police Department are deeply committed to safeguarding our local retailers and ensuring a safe shopping environment for our entire community. We as a department are dedicated to combating retail theft through proactive measures, collaboration with local retailers, and the use of advanced technology. We understand the impact that theft has on businesses and the community, and we are resolute in our efforts to deter and address these crimes effectively. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.”
Organized retail theft incidents may be reported to the Hemet Police Department at (951)765-2400 or you can provide anonymous information through the Hemet Police Department’s smartphone app, available for free Apple App Store for iOS devices and Google Play for Android users.
