Target shoppers go crazy over anti-theft ‘blitz’ at stores – they ‘love the name & shame’ and it’s coming to more chains

TARGET shoppers went crazy over the retailer’s anti-theft ‘blitz’ operations as the initiative is set to impact other chains.

Customers declared they “love the name and shame” over the recent development that has resulted in the arrest of nearly two dozen suspects.

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Authorities in Southern California have been making efforts to crack down on recent theft from local Target stores in Simi Valley and Moorpark.

Target Corporation partnered with Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force for a two-day “blitz” initiative to arrest shoplifters.

Nineteen adults and three teens were arrested between August 23 and August 24, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office said.

The youngest of the apprehended individuals was a 14-year-old teenager who was cited and released on the spot.

Those who were taken into custody have court dates set for late October.

Authorities recovered an estimated $1,400 in stolen merchandise, according to USA Today .

Police also found methamphetamine and other drug paraphernalia while collecting the swiped commodities.

The Task Force was created after receiving funding from the  California Retail Theft Prevention Grant Program.

It plans to prevent an estimated $10 million in yearly loss from organized retail theft and vehicle theft, among others, in Ventura County.

“The task force aims to provide a safe environment for everyone while working hand in hand with retailers, law enforcement agencies and the public to identify, locate and arrest the criminals involved in these types of crimes,” the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office said.

While Target is one step closer to its goal, the Task Force plans to work with future businesses to crack down on theft within the area.

People with information on organized retail theft, vehicle or vehicle parts theft, or cargo theft are encouraged to call the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force at 1 (805) 383-8703.

‘ NAME & SHAME’

After news broke about the “blitz” organizations, Target shoppers took to social media to share their thoughts.

Many were in favor of the initiative, with one Facebook user saying, “I love the Name & Shame!!”

• Michael Blumenthal, 41, was arrested for conspiracy to commit retail theft. Blumenthal currently remains in custody.
• Alyssa Castro, 30, and Jenna Haxton, 44, were arrested for conspiring to commit organized retail theft. The two were released on bail and required to return to court.
• Maylson Gomez-Torres, 23, Luis Gomez-Olivia, 50, and Yorli Lopez-Saenz, 29, were arrested for conspiring to commit shoplifting. The three were booked and released due to their own recognizance.
• Ronald Haynes, 38, was arrested for conspiring to obtain money on false pretenses. Haynes is currently still in custody.
• Brent Walkins, 25, was arrested in connection with conspiracy to obtain money by false pretenses. Walkins was later released after booking.
• Dontell Smith, 33, was arrested for shoplifting and on a misdemeanor warrant. He was released on his own recognizance.

“Great idea but keep them locked up and post their names on the store windows for all their family, friends and neighbors to see,” suggested one customer.

“A little shame will do them good.”

“It’s really about time,” said another.

While many are hopeful with the new initiative, shoppers are demanding harsher punishments.

“Citations, why not jail time?” asked one person.

“They should all be in prison,” said another.

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