Overview of the Theft Ring
Southern California authorities have arrested 14 individuals involved in what is described as the largest retail theft ring targeting Home Depot in the company’s history. The group, responsible for over $10 million in losses, executed approximately 600 thefts across 71 Home Depot locations, focusing on high-value electrical components such as breakers, dimmers, switches, and outlets.
Organized Criminal Operation
Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff detailed the group’s sophisticated methods during a press conference, noting their highly organized approach. The thieves, referred to as “boosters,” systematically targeted Home Depot stores, often hitting multiple locations in a single day. In Ventura County alone, they stole between $6,000 and $10,000 in merchandise per store, operating without pause, according to Detective Kevin Alldredge.
Key Figures and Charges
The operation, dubbed Operation Killswitch, centered around David Ah, a 59-year-old Tarzana resident who allegedly ran ARIA Wholesale. Ah is accused of receiving stolen goods delivered in trash bags or Home Depot boxes. His brother-in-law reportedly sold the stolen items on eBay, while his ex-wife and her boyfriend operated a similar theft ring. Ah faces 48 felony counts, including conspiracy, organized retail theft, grand theft, receiving stolen property, and money laundering. Nine of the 14 arrested have been charged, with potential prison sentences ranging from four to 21 years.
Seizures and Impact
Police searches recovered approximately $3.7 million in stolen Home Depot merchandise and $800,000 in laundered funds. Home Depot’s regional asset protection manager, Darlene Hermosillo, condemned the thefts, emphasizing that organized retail crime, driven by greed, endangers customers and communities. The scale of the operation has prompted increased focus on retail theft prevention.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
David Ah remains in custody at Ventura County Main Jail with a $500,000 bail, while other suspects face bails between $250,000 and $500,000. A court conference for Ah’s case is scheduled for Wednesday. Authorities credited a multi-year grant supporting the Organized Retail Theft Taskforce for aiding the investigation, highlighting collaborative efforts to combat such crimes.
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