California Holiday Retail Theft Operation Leads to 117 Arrests

Law enforcement recovers $38,000 in stolen goods, illegal firearms, and vehicles in a statewide crackdown on organized retail crime.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and 10 local law enforcement agencies conducted 'Operation Holiday Watch,' targeting retail theft across the state on December 20.
Authorities arrested 117 individuals on charges ranging from petty theft and grand theft to organized retail crime.
The operation recovered $38,000 worth of stolen merchandise, including clothing, shoes, and fragrances, along with two illegal firearms and three stolen vehicles.
CHP partnered with 56 retailers to increase security and deter theft during the busy holiday shopping season.
California has allocated $267 million to combat retail crime, with new laws taking effect in 2025 to enhance enforcement and penalties for offenders.