Hemet, California – On Thursday, November 14, 2024, The Hemet Police Department’s Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Team conducted an Organized Retail Theft Operation at Marshalls in the City of Hemet.
This undercover operation to fight retail crime resulted in 4 adult arrests for several felony theft related charges, and the recovery of more than $5,469.59 in stolen merchandise that will ultimately be returned to the retailers.
During this operation, detectives were also able to make arrests on a previous ORT felony case they had been investigating involving another local retailer.
Hemet Police ORT detectives and our business liaison officer are familiar with most major Organized Retail Theft cases in our region due to networking and dedication. During the operation one of the suspects arrested was recognized to be also involved in thefts from a neighboring city. Detectives from that department were contacted and later responded to conduct further investigation on their theft cases.
Chief of Police Michael Arellano said, “The men and women of the Hemet Police Department are committed to a zero-tolerance policy regarding any organized retail theft in our city. Those caught engaging in such activities will be arrested and taken to jail. Our commitment to the well-being of our community and to our retail partners is unwavering, and we will take every necessary measure to uphold this mission.”
The success of this operation is attributed to the strong partnership between the Hemet Police Department and our local retailers. Operations similar to these will continue every month and will be increased throughout the holiday shopping season in the city.
