East SBV Times

Between November 23 and November 29, 2024, a collaborative effort by multiple law enforcement agencies in San Bernardino County led to the arrest of over 30 individuals as part of "Operation Smash & Grab." The operation targeted retail theft throughout the county, resulting in 13 felony arrests and 20 misdemeanor arrests. Authorities recovered $2,166.91 worth of stolen merchandise.

The initiative involved the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Gangs/Narcotics Division, Rancho Cucamonga Station, San Bernardino County Probation Department, Homeland Security Investigations, California Highway Patrol, and the San Bernardino Police Department. These agencies worked together to address rising theft incidents at retail stores that often involve organized groups engaging in robberies and other criminal activities.

"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 officials from the Sheriff's Department. Operation Smash & Grab focused on several key shopping districts including Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville, and Chino Hills with efforts aimed at disrupting these theft crews.

Funding for this crime suppression operation was authorized by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors to enhance law enforcement services related to quality-of-life issues within the community.

For more information or inquiries about this operation, contact the Public Affairs Division at (909) 387-3700.