East SBV Times

Between July 12 and July 25, 2024, investigators from multiple agencies conducted a retail theft operation throughout San Bernardino County. The agencies involved included 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 this period, investigators made 15 felony arrests and 22 misdemeanor arrests and recovered $16,799 in property.

The operation was initiated due to rising concerns over thefts at retail stores involving organized crews committing robberies, burglaries, shelve sweeps, and vandalism. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s 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 targeted shopping districts in Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills. Investigators employed both conventional and non-conventional investigative methods to disrupt these theft crews.

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors authorized additional funds to assist with county-wide crime suppression efforts. This funding aims to enhance law enforcement services related to quality-of-life issues affecting local communities.

For further information:

Public Affairs Division

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Phone No. (909) 387-3700

Shannon D. Dicus

Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department