Multiple arrests made in theft spree targeting tractor supply store

Several people were arrested earlier this week following multiple thefts at a Tractor Supply Co. in Apple Valley, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

The arrests were made Tuesday, one early in the morning and another late at night.

The first happened around 3:10 a.m. when deputies who were conducting active patrols of the retailer saw a red Chevrolet Tahoe leaving the business, which is located at 20340 Bear Valley Rd.

The deputies conducted a traffic stop of that vehicle, which was found to be filled with dog food and wood pellets that were confirmed stolen from Tractor Supply.

Three of the four occupants of the vehicle were arrested and booked into the High Desert Detention Center in Adelanto. They’ve been identified as William Joseph Dean, 43; Richard Raymond Maldonado, 32; and Matthew Michael Verax, 30.

Maldonado faces charges for conspiracy and has been released on bail. Dean and Verax remain in custody without bail due to previous arrests and they each face possible charges of conspiracy and burglary.

The fourth person, a 58-year-old woman, was detained but not arrested, officials said.

Hours later, around 11:20 p.m., deputies located a vehicle linked to the theft of a generator from Tractor Supply.

A traffic stop was conducted and the driver, 32-year-old Joshua Harris, was arrested. He was also booked into the High Desert Detention Center to await charges for grand theft, as well as additional felony warrants out of both San Bernardino and Riverside counties.

Because of those existing felony warrants, Harris is being held without bail.

The investigations remain ongoing and anyone with information related to these thefts is encouraged to contact SBPD deputies Ray or Mammolito at the Apple Valley Station by calling 760-240-7400. Anonymous tips can be provided online .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.