Two Southern California cargo theft rings exposed, millions linked

Two major law enforcement actions in Southern California have exposed large, organized theft networks that investigators say siphoned millions of dollars from supply chains and retail stores. In Los Angeles, police say two hardware stores and an online operation served as distribution hubs for a cargo theft ring that moved about 4.5 million dollars in stolen goods. In Ventura County, authorities announced charges in a separate investigation that alleges a coordinated crew stole at least 10 million dollars in merchandise from Home Depot stores across multiple counties.

Los Angeles police described the DJ General Tool Wire locations in Montebello and Huntington Park as elaborate fronts for a theft and fencing operation. Investigators linked power tools, e-bikes and appliances from major brands to specific cargo theft incidents involving trains, trucks and ships. Store owner Dojoon Park, 41, was arrested on suspicion of receiving stolen property as prosecutors prepare felony charges that could carry multi-year state prison sentences. District Attorney Nathan Hochman said authorities are assessing Park’s conduct and expect to bring charges that reflect the scale of the alleged...