San Jose police have apprehended two individuals believed to be responsible for a series of brazen shoplifting incidents that plagued the city for several months. Jaime Flores, 46, and Thomas Sapinoso, 37, are currently being held at the Elmwood men’s jail in Milpitas, accused of orchestrating over 70 thefts from various big-box stores. The spree resulted in losses exceeding $75,000 for the targeted retailers, including Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Nike, REI, and Target.
According to a news release issued by the San Jose Police Department, surveillance footage captured Flores and Sapinoso leaving a Nike store in San Jose with their arms laden with shoeboxes and other merchandise. In a pattern consistent with their other thefts, the duo swiftly made their escape in a waiting vehicle. The police have shared the surveillance image in hopes of gathering additional information related to the investigation.
Flores was apprehended on December 16 after officers responded to a theft report at Westgate Center, which houses several of the affected retailers. He is currently in jail custody without bail. Sapinoso, on the other hand, was already incarcerated when San Jose police detectives obtained an arrest warrant for him on January 31. Sapinoso had been booked the previous day for an unrelated incident, as stated by the police.
Police Chief Anthony Mata commended the recent arrests, attributing their success in part to the allocation of $8.4 million in state funds specifically designated for combating organized retail theft. Over half of the funds will be utilized to bolster officer patrols and investigations, while an additional $3 million will be allocated for the installation of more automated license-plate reader cameras throughout the city.
Mata expressed his appreciation for the proactive and dedicated efforts of the Organized Retail Theft Detail in combating this issue in San Jose. He urged anyone with information regarding the theft investigation involving Flores and Sapinoso to contact Detective Marc Beretta or forensic analyst David Moody. Alternatively, tips can be provided to Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers.
2 Responses
The post states that the San Jose police have caught two people who were involved in a string of shoplifting incidents in the city. These incidents had been happening for a few months and were causing concern among the residents.
My insight on this is that it is a positive development that the police were able to apprehend the individuals responsible. Shoplifting not only causes financial loss to businesses but also affects the overall sense of security in the community. By catching the culprits, the police have taken a step
The post states that the San Jose police have caught two people who were allegedly involved in a string of shoplifting incidents in the city. These incidents had been occurring for a few months and were causing concern among the community.
My insight is that the apprehension of these individuals is a positive development for the city and its residents. Shoplifting not only causes financial losses for businesses but also disrupts the sense of safety and security in the community. By catching the culprits, the police have taken a