East SBV Times

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, alongside other law enforcement agencies, recently conducted an operation aimed at suppressing retail crime in the area. The operation, named "Operation Smash & Grab," took place at the Victoria Gardens Shopping Center on April 19, 2024.

During the operation, a significant number of arrests were made, as stated by the Sheriff-Coroner of San Bernardino County, Shannon D. Dicus: "During the operation, investigators made six felony arrests, and seven misdemeanor arrests and recovered $10,926.60 in property."

The Sheriff's Department expressed concerns about the increase in thefts at retail stores, with a focus on organized crime groups: "The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department became concerned with the rise in thefts at retail stores, which often involved organized crews that conspire to commit robberies, burglaries, shelve sweeps, and vandalisms."

These criminal activities not only affect businesses but also impact the safety and comfort of residents, as highlighted by the department: "These violent criminals terrorize the citizens of San Bernardino County by utilizing intimidation tactics and a mob mentality that creates an unsafe and uncomfortable shopping environment for our residents."

Operation Smash & Grab specifically targets shopping districts in Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills to combat and dismantle these criminal groups: "Operation SMASH & Grab focuses its efforts on the Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills shopping districts to disrupt and dismantle these retail store theft crews."

The initiative also involves additional funding to enhance law enforcement services addressing quality-of-life issues in the community: "The intent is to provide additional funding to the Sheriff’s Department, allowing for increased law enforcement services related to quality-of-life issues affecting the communities in our county."

The collaborative efforts of various agencies demonstrate a commitment to combating retail crime and enhancing public safety in San Bernardino County.