Organized Retail Theft Sting, Christmas Edition

Hemet, California – On Monday, December 18, 2023, The Hemet Police Department’s ROCS Team and the California Highway Patrol’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force conducted an Organized Retail Theft Sting at the retail stores located in the KPC Towne Plaza in the City of Hemet.

This collaborative effort to fight retail crime resulted in 11 arrests, which included felony and misdemeanor theft charges, and the recovery of more than $2,000.00 in stolen merchandise. These teams also located one missing juvenile and impounded three vehicles during their operation.

Chief of Police Eddie Pust said, “While we strive to build a safe and thriving community, I want to make it unequivocally clear that retail theft will not be tolerated. We are taking a zero-tolerance stance on this matter, and this is just the beginning of our intensified efforts. Those caught engaging in such activities will be arrested and taken to jail. Let this serve as a stern warning that our commitment to the well-being of our community is unwavering, and we will take every necessary measure to uphold its safety and security.” 

The success of this operation is greatly attributed to the strong partnership between the Hemet Police Department, CHP, and our local retailers.

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. Anonymous tips are always accepted.