San Bernardino County arrests 15 in retail theft operation

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, in collaboration with partner agencies, conducted ‘Operation Smash and Grab’ between September 12 and October 3. The retail theft operation targeted shopping districts in Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills.

During the operation, investigators made nine misdemeanor arrests and six felony arrests, recovering approximately $3,900 in property. The initiative aims to disrupt organized crews involved in robberies, burglaries, shelf sweeps, and vandalism, which have seen a rise in the region since late 2023. The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors has provided additional funding to support increased law enforcement efforts regarding retail theft and quality-of-life issues.