LASD Busts Cargo Theft Ring: 9 Arrested, $7 Million in Stolen Goods and $1 Million in Cash Recovered

Los Angeles County, CA – March 20, 2026 – The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) announced the successful dismantling of an organized cargo theft operation following a multi-month investigation by its Major Crimes Bureau Cargo Criminal Apprehension Team (CCATS).

Between December 2025 and February 2026, detectives executed 13 search warrants across Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. The operation resulted in the arrest of nine suspects, who were booked on felony charges including grand theft of cargo, money laundering, and receiving stolen property. The case is expected to be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for further filing consideration.

Authorities recovered approximately $7 million worth of stolen cargo freight from shipments belonging to 36 companies, including major brands such as Amazon, Sony, LG, Costco, Disney, JB Hunt, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Wolff Shoes, and Monster Energy. Seized items included a wide range of high-value goods: Hisense televisions, LG microwaves, Cannon printers, Sony soundbars, Milwaukee tools, golf carts, ATVs, Disney clothing, Ring cameras, and more.

In addition, investigators recovered $1 million in U.S. currency during the searches.

The investigation highlights the growing issue of organized retail and cargo crime in Southern California, where sophisticated networks target supply chains to steal and resell merchandise.The suspects' individual names and nationalities have not been publicly released by the LASD at this time, as is common in ongoing cases prior to formal charging or arraignment.

Anyone with information related to cargo theft is encouraged to contact the Organized Retail Crimes Task Force at [email protected] or (562) 946-7270.

This operation underscores efforts by local law enforcement to combat rising cargo theft trends affecting major retailers and logistics companies nationwide.