LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities in Riverside County have arrested two men in connection with an organized retail theft operation that targeted businesses in Moreno Valley, officials said.
The suspects, identified as Maclean Andrew Short, 35, and Jesus Miguel Robles, 47, both of Moreno Valley, were taken into custody after a months-long investigation by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives began investigating the theft ring on September 7, 2024, after multiple businesses in the area reported significant losses due to coordinated shoplifting and burglary incidents. Authorities determined that more than $22,000 worth of merchandise had been stolen from retailers.
As part of the investigation, deputies executed multiple search warrants on February 12, including one at Robles’ home on the 2500 block of Silent Creek Road. During the searches, authorities recovered a large cache of stolen merchandise, including designer sunglasses, electric scooters, and other high-value items linked to the theft operation.
Both Short and Robles were arrested on charges of burglary, grand theft, and organized retail theft. Short is also facing an additional charge for violating his probation.
“The Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station SET remains committed to addressing organized retail crime and ensuring the safety and security of local businesses and residents,” the sheriff’s department said in a statement.
Authorities believe the theft ring may have been responsible for additional crimes in the region, and the case remains under investigation. Officials are urging anyone with information to contact Deputy Cathman Page at 951-486-6700 or Riverside Sheriff’s Dispatch at 951-776-1099.
