An alleged family-run theft ring targeting a series of Ross Dress for Less stores in Ventura County met their match when the newly formed Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force put an end to their spree.

According to a news release dated May 7, 2024, three Anaheim residents, Eduardo Arellano, 25, his sister Alexandri Mejorada, 23, and their father, Gustavo Arellano, 47, were suspected of pinching merchandise totaling around $3,000 from various Ross locations. On the afternoon of April 9, security at the Camarillo store noticed the trio allegedly stripping security tags and concealing items. A prompt call and rapid response led to the capture of the younger Arellanos as they exited the premises, the misbegotten goods in tow along with a device to dismantle security tags nestled in Eduardo's pants pocket, the Ventura County Sheriff's Office reported.

The elder Arellano, Gustavo, initially gave authorities the slip but was at last apprehended on May 2 near his Anaheim home. Charged with grand theft and conspiracy, he remains behind bars on a $150,000 bail, waiting for a courtroom showdown scheduled for May 6. His offspring were released two days after their arrest on their own recognizance, each facing a felony charge for organized retail theft, as revealed by official statements.

Established with the help of the California Retail Theft Prevention Grant Program, the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force is a concerted effort by multiple law enforcement agencies to tackle the costly plague of organized theft, which bleeds an estimated $10 million yearly from the county's economy. The crackdown is not just on shoplifters but also takes aim at vehicle and cargo theft, ensuring that local businesses and residents can operate and live without falling prey to these crimes.

The task force encourages anyone with knowledge of organized retail theft, vehicle theft, or cargo theft to reach out to them directly or through the anonymous tip lines provided.