East SBV Times

May 6, 2024 - Between April 19 and May 2, 2024, a targeted crime suppression operation named Operation Smash & Grab was conducted at the Victoria Gardens Shopping Center in Rancho Cucamonga. The collaborative effort involved multiple law enforcement agencies and resulted in over 35 arrests.

The operation led to 14 felony arrests, 22 misdemeanor arrests, the service of two search warrants, and the recovery of $17,705 in stolen property. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, along with other agencies, aimed to tackle the increasing trend of thefts at retail stores by organized criminal groups.

"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," stated the Public Affairs Division. Operation Smash & Grab specifically targeted shopping districts in Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills to disrupt and dismantle these criminal crews.

"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," emphasized the Public Affairs Division.

The operation's success reflects the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat organized retail theft and improve the safety and security of the communities they serve.