East SBV Times

Between June 28 and July 11, 2024, multiple law enforcement agencies conducted a series of retail theft operations across San Bernardino County. The coordinated effort, dubbed "Operation Smash & Grab," involved the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department – Gangs/Narcotics Division, Rancho Cucamonga Station, San Bernardino County Probation Department, Homeland Security Investigations, California Highway Patrol, and the San Bernardino Police Department.

During these operations, authorities made 12 felony arrests and 24 misdemeanor arrests while recovering $7,826 in stolen property.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department initiated this operation in response to an increase in thefts at retail stores. These incidents often involve organized groups committing robberies, burglaries, shelf sweeps, and acts of vandalism. "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," stated a representative from the Sheriff's Department.

Operation Smash & Grab targeted shopping districts in Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills. Investigators employed both conventional and non-conventional methods to disrupt and dismantle these theft crews.

The initiative received funding authorization from the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors to enhance county-wide crime suppression efforts. This funding aims to support increased law enforcement services addressing quality-of-life issues within the community.

For further information, contact the Public Affairs Division at (909) 387-3700.

Shannon D. Dicus

Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Refer: Public Affairs Division

Station: Gangs/Narcotics Division

Phone No.: (909) 387-3700

Case Nos.: [list of case numbers]

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