Camarillo, CA — Authorities arrested eight suspects and recovered nearly $6,000 worth of stolen merchandise during a retail theft operation at the Camarillo Premium Outlets on June 14, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
The single-day operation was part of an ongoing effort by the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force to crack down on organized retail crime in the region. Officers also discovered burglary tools and a pair of brass knuckles during the operation.
The suspects were identified as:
- Martin Granados, 40, Newbury Park
- Luis Santiago, 31, Oxnard
- Cristian Hernandez, 29, Newbury Park
- Carlos Sanchez, 26, Moorpark
- Sergio Rosas, 21, Van Nuys
- Manuel Flores, 19, Bakersfield
- Santiago Barrero, 18, Van Nuys
- Male juvenile, 16, West Covina
Granados and Hernandez allegedly stole nearly $700 worth of merchandise from several retailers. When deputies approached them near their vehicle, the pair fled but were caught shortly after. Both face charges of conspiracy to commit organized retail theft and resisting an executive officer. Granados also faces an additional charge for possession of brass knuckles.
Authorities say Sanchez and Santiago were found with over $2,200 worth of stolen goods from six different outlet stores inside their vehicle. Both face charges of organized retail theft, grand theft, possession of stolen property, and possession of burglary tools. Sanchez was reportedly out on bail for other theft-related cases at the time of his arrest.
Rosas, Barrero, and a 16-year-old boy allegedly stole over $2,600 worth of merchandise from 14 different stores. They were arrested for conspiracy to commit organized retail theft. Rosas and Barrero were also charged with child endangerment for involving the juvenile in the crimes.
Flores, meanwhile, was cited and released after allegedly stealing $75 worth of merchandise from one of the outlet stores.
All cases have been submitted to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office for review.
The Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force includes detectives from various local agencies focused on curbing organized retail theft, vehicle-related thefts, and cargo thefts.
“The task force aims to provide a safe environment for everyone while working hand in hand with retailers, law enforcement agencies, and the public to identify, locate, and arrest the criminals involved in these types of crimes,” the Sheriff’s Department said.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about retail theft cases to contact the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force at 805-383-8703. Anonymous tips can be submitted to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
Retailers interested in participating in similar operations can also call 805-383-8703.
