Southern California, CA — Authorities announced the arrest of 14 people in connection with what officials are calling the largest organized retail theft operation targeting Home Depot in company history, with nine suspects facing felony charges. The operation allegedly spanned multiple counties and Home Depot locations, resulting in losses exceeding $10 million.
Scope of the Alleged Operation
Officials reported that the suspects were linked to over 600 thefts at 71 Home Depot stores across Southern California. According to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, “They basically had been able to pull off over 600 different thefts from Home Depots in the surrounding counties. They must have thought life was grand. They’ve been making millions of dollars, didn’t look like anyone was going to stop them.”
The arrests stem from a lengthy investigation into what authorities described as a well-organized criminal enterprise systematically targeting high-value electrical components, including breakers, dimmers, and switches. Surveillance footage revealed some suspects bypassing security measures, even after Home Depot placed expensive items behind cages or on high shelves.
Central Figures and Charges
David Ahl, who operated ARIA Wholesale in Tarzana, is alleged to be the central figure in the operation. He faces 48 felony counts including conspiracy, organized retail theft, grand theft, receiving stolen property, and money laundering. Ventura County authorities have set his bail at $500,000, and he could face up to 32 years in prison if convicted.
Other individuals involved include Ahl’s brother-in-law, who allegedly sold stolen merchandise via eBay, and Ahl’s ex-wife and her boyfriend, who reportedly ran a “nearly identical” fencing operation. The so-called “boosters” reportedly transported stolen items to Ahl’s business or home in trash bags or Home Depot boxes, sometimes hitting every Home Depot in Ventura County in a single day.
“This wasn’t shoplifting. It was a criminal enterprise that allegedly stole millions of dollars, and it was finally stopped here in Ventura County,” said Erik Nasarenko, Ventura County District Attorney.
Seizures and Impact
During searches, authorities confiscated an estimated $3.7 million in Home Depot property and $800,000 in cash allegedly linked to money laundering. Home Depot officials emphasized that organized retail theft has broader impacts:
“It’s about protecting the well-being and safety of our customers, our associates and the communities in which we serve,” said Darlene Hermosillo, Home Depot Regional Asset Protection Manager.
The investigation was supported through a state grant program targeting organized retail theft, highlighting the growing concern of commercial crime in California.
Public Safety and Legal Proceedings
All 14 defendants remain in custody and have pleaded not guilty. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the operation, while encouraging the public to report any related suspicious activity.
This arrest underscores the serious financial and community risks posed by organized retail crime, as well as the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and corporate partners to protect businesses and the public.
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