Southern California theft suspect arrested with truck full of stolen merchandise

A suspect was arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from Southern California stores.

Earlier this week, police officers responded to a Target store in Chino after security reported an ongoing theft.

The male suspect had loaded a shopping cart filled with merchandise and left the store without paying, officers said.

The suspect loaded the stolen goods into a U-Haul truck and fled the area. Police later spotted the truck on the 60 Freeway and pulled the driver over.

Inside the box truck, over $1,500 worth of stolen merchandise was found. Police said the suspect, identified only as a Gardena resident, was allegedly responsible for over $33,000 worth of retail thefts in other neighborhoods.

During the arrest, police also found fentanyl inside his vehicle.

The suspect was taken into custody on charges of grand theft, four outstanding warrants for theft and narcotics, and possession of fentanyl.

His identity was not released as the case remains under investigation.

Footage of the theft can be seen in the video player above.

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