“Southern California Woman Arrested in Multi-Million Dollar Retail Theft Scheme”
Law enforcement authorities apprehended Brenda Yanez, a 48-year-old Los Angeles resident, believed to be linked to a sophisticated retail theft ring operating across Southern California. The California Highway Patrol’s Organized Retail Crime Taskforce identified Yanez in connection with the illicit operation.
Yanez stands accused of involvement in an organized theft scheme targeting numerous prominent retailers such as Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Nordstrom, CVS, Rite Aid, and the 99 Cents Only Store. Following investigations, search warrants were executed at two locations: a warehouse in Paramount and a storefront named The Makeup Store on Whittier Boulevard in Los Angeles.
During the searches, law enforcement officials uncovered substantial quantities of stolen beauty products and assorted merchandise stored in boxes at both sites. The total estimated retail value of the pilfered goods surpassed $1 million.
Additionally, authorities discovered tools specifically designed for removing anti-theft devices affixed to the stolen items, indicating a systematic approach to the thefts.
To ascertain the authenticity of the stolen items, and in collaboration with the victimized retailers, loss prevention investigators were present at the locations.
Brenda Yanez faces charges related to organized retail theft, grand theft, and receiving stolen property as the investigation progresses. The California Highway Patrol emphasized its commitment to working alongside loss prevention partners, law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors throughout the holiday season to combat organized retail crime in the region.
