Eight people were arrested on suspicion of organized retail theft after authorities discovered several million dollars worth of stolen medications, cosmetics and other merchandise at multiple locations in Los Angeles, sheriff's officials said.
According to investigators, the store merchandise was stolen by groups of organized shoplifters from stores in California, Arizona and Nevada. The stolen items were then taken to various locations in LA County, where they were sold to various “fence operations,” officials said.
Authorities who investigate shoplifting call people who buy stolen goods and then resell them for a profit “fences.”
Police said they also recovered a stolen firearm and a large sum of cash a release Shipped late Friday.
The suspects, who have not been named, are being held on $60,000 bail each.
Early Thursday morning, sheriff's detectives conducted raids on a dozen locations in Los Angeles believed to be involved with the crime ring. according to KCAL CBS.
At a small market in South LA, they found boxes of stolen Motrin, Theraflu and other goods stacked from floor to ceiling, the report said. Much of the merchandise still had store labels on it. The location appeared to be where the goods were relabeled for sale, officials said.
Detectives said they worked with the help of stores including CVS and Walmart to uncover the illegal operation.
The stolen goods are often sold online, officials say, including on Amazon.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact the Organized Retail Crimes Task Force at 562-946-7270.
