Bellevue police disrupt international organized retail theft ring
The suspects allegedly stole more than $76,000 in merchandise.
BELLEVUE, Wash. – The three suspects who allegedly stole more than $75,000 are arrested in Bellevue last month.
The three suspects, aged 18, 22 and 27, were arrested outside Bellevue Square on May 20 after security witnessed them stealing from shops inside the mall. Two of the suspects tried to run away when confronted by officers but were quickly apprehended.
The suspects were involved in an organized retail theft ring in Bogota, Colombia, and are believed to have been very active in the I-5 corridor between California and Washington.
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“Sergeant Tony Romero has spent the past few months investigating this group and worked with asset protection officers from Kemper Development, Lululemon, American Eagle, Macy’s, Hollister, and regional law enforcement partners to follow up. monitor their activities,” said Major Dave Sanabria. “That work and collaboration has allowed us to quickly identify suspects, build a strong case, and forward charges to the King County Prosecutor’s Office.”
Two of the suspects had forged Colombian IDs, and the group is believed to be operating out of Los Angeles.
Several burglaries since March in the Bellevue area have been linked to this group. Foil-lined shopping bags designed to conceal goods and disable anti-theft sensors were found when the suspects were arrested.
The King County Prosecutor’s Office is reviewing the charges, but the three suspects have been released from prison according to the Bellevue Police Department.
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