HEMET, CA — During the final shopping days leading up to Christmas, multiple California law enforcement agencies, including the Hemet Police Department, participated in a coordinated enforcement operation aimed at combating organized retail theft and promoting a safe shopping environment throughout the state.
The collaborative statewide retail theft blitz occurred on Friday, December 19, 2025, and resulted in 66 arrests for organized retail theft and related offenses. Law enforcement agencies also recovered more than 552 stolen items, with an estimated value of $14,050.86.
The statewide blitz was coordinated by the California Highway Patrol, in collaboration with the Hemet Police Department, Santa Monica Police Department, Santa Ana Police Department, Chino Police Department, San Diego Police Department, and the Orange County and Riverside County District Attorney’s Offices.
The success of this operation is attributed to the strong partnerships between Hemet PD, the California Highway Patrol, allied law enforcement agencies, prosecutorial partners, and retail businesses.
Key Results of the Operation
- 66 arrests for organized retail theft and related offenses
- Recovery of 552 stolen items, valued at approximately $14,050.86
- Enhanced collaboration among California law enforcement agencies and multiple retail partners to improve in-store security and reporting
- Increased law enforcement visibility in high-traffic shopping areas, helping deter additional criminal activity
Organized retail theft incidents may be reported to the Hemet Police Department by calling (951) 765-2400. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the Hemet Police Department smartphone app, available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play.