On Wednesday, Los Angeles authorities apprehended five individuals in Corona, accusing them of orchestrating a multi-million dollar cargo theft operation.
The Los Angeles Police Department explained that these arrests are the result of an extensive investigation into a spate of thefts targeting cargo and the chassis used to transport shipping containers for large trucks.
In collaboration with three other agencies, police executed search warrants on the suspects’ properties, uncovering a substantial amount of what they allege to be stolen goods.
In total, authorities reported seizing approximately $5 million worth of illicit merchandise.
Among the confiscated items were 84 stolen container chassis, 11 tractors, 25 vehicles, six all-terrain vehicles, and two heavy-duty forklifts, believed to have altered vehicle identification numbers, noted the LAPD.
Additionally, officers recovered over $300,000 in cash, three firearms, and several digital devices.
An enviable array of luxury vehicles and sports cars that were seized by cops was displayed in a set of photos of the bust shared by law enforcement with reporters.
The LAPD’s Commercial Crimes Division Cargo Theft Task Force worked with the Los Angeles Port Police, California Department of Justice Tax Recovery in the Underground Economy Program (TRUE) and the California Department of Motor Vehicles Investigations Division on the investigation.
“Through this collaborative enforcement effort, the total estimated value of recovered property exceeds $5 million,” said LAPD officials in a statement. “This investigation is ongoing and further arrests are expected.”
The five individuals arrested were released by authorities and face court dates next month.
They each face felony charges of grand theft.
The LAPD identified these individuals as the people arrested:
- Jose Del Toro Sr., 43, of Corona
- Maria Ramos, 42, of Corona
- Malissa Del Toro, 25, of Corona
- Jose Del Toro Jr., 23, of Corona
- Yairet Jimenez, 23, of Corona
Attorneys representing the accused could not be reached.
