DOJ: Dispensaries in Merced, Fresno counties burglarized in statewide crime scheme

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Over 20 members of a statewide retail crime organization were arrested after stealing approximately $1 million worth of marijuana from dispensaries across the state, including in Fresno and Merced counties, according to the California Department of Justice.

According to the California DOJ, “Operation Sticky Fingers” identified 22 suspects as responsible for stealing 975 pounds of marijuana from at least 15 dispensaries across nine counties.

The DOJ says the group burglarized dispensaries in Santa Cruz County, Monterey County, Solano County, Kern County, San Luis Obispo County, Fresno County, Merced County, Sonoma County, and San Diego County.

“These burglaries are damaging the livelihoods of law-abiding business owners, and we will not tolerate it,” Santa Cruz County Sheriff Jim Hart said. “Our detectives have done outstanding work on these cases, and with the help and collaboration of over a dozen other agencies, these individuals will now have to answer for their crimes.”

Search warrants were served on July 17, resulting in the arrests of 22 alleged conspirators and the seizure of over 50 pounds of marijuana. On July 22, the DOJ filed criminal complaints charging the suspects with commercial burglary, grand theft, organized retail theft, and conspiracy to commit a crime.

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