Hemet Police ORT Team “Blitz” Operation Results in Five Arrests, Felony Charges, and $624 in Recovered Stolen Goods
HEMET, CA – The Hemet Police Department’s Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Team conducted a focused enforcement action, labeled a “Blitz” operation, at the Village West Shopping Center on Friday, October 24, 2025. The operation was executed with the stated purpose of deterring and addressing organized retail theft activities impacting local commercial entities.
The enforcement window ran from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. During this six-hour period, plainclothes officers collaborated directly with store employees and on-site security personnel. These combined efforts were utilized to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of engaging in theft-related offenses within the shopping center.
The operation resulted in the arrest of five individuals. Of the cases filed, four were classified as felonies, and one was classified as a misdemeanor. Additionally, one of the individuals apprehended was issued a parole hold. Authorities also impounded one vehicle associated with the activities and successfully recovered $624 in merchandise identified as stolen.
The Hemet Police Department defined organized retail theft as activities often carried out by coordinated groups with the intent to steal significant quantities of merchandise for resale, noting that proceeds may fund broader criminal enterprises. The department emphasized its commitment to proactive enforcement and community education, asserting that strong partnerships with retailers and residents are central to these strategies. The department maintains its resolve to hold offenders accountable and work toward a secure shopping environment.
