Target’s loss prevention first spotted two suspects as they were trying to break through a security device, according to the Irvine Police Department.
When that didn’t work, they wandered over to Apple, where security immediately recognized one of them from a theft in Brea earlier that day: the same outfit, the same shoes, the same criminal energy.
Inside the store, one suspect grabbed an iPhone 17 Pro Max and walked out like it was launch day, and he had VIP status.
Their car turned out to be the real iCloud backup: multiple stolen iPhones, all lighting up with messages like “Please return to Apple Brea Mall” and “Local authorities will be alerted.” The devices were not kidding.
One suspect even AirDropped a stolen Apple Watch into a planter while trying to avoid our officers.
Angel Osorio, 27, and Jonatan Alvarado, 28, both from New York, were arrested for organized retail theft.
Here are the penalties and consequences the suspects could face under California’s updated organized retail theft laws:
Criminal Penalties
- Organized Retail Theft (Penal Code §490.4)
- If the aggregated value of stolen goods exceeds $950, the crime is a felony.
- Punishable by up to 3 years in county jail or state prison.
- Aggregation Rule
- Multiple thefts within 12 months can be combined to reach the $950 threshold for felony charges.
- Possession of Stolen Goods
- Having more than $950 in stolen merchandise with intent to sell or exchange is a separate felony, punishable by up to 3 years in jail.
- Sentencing Enhancements
- If total stolen value exceeds $50,000, an extra year can be added to the sentence.
- Retail Theft Restraining Orders
- Courts can ban convicted individuals from entering certain stores for up to 2 years.
Other Consequences
- Permanent Criminal Record
- Felony conviction will remain on record, affecting employment, housing, and licensing.
- Probation and Diversion
- Probation terms for theft can now extend up to 2 years; some offenders under 25 may qualify for diversion programs.
- Restitution
- Mandatory repayment to retailers for losses and damages.
- Impact on Future Employment
- Felony theft convictions severely limit job opportunities, especially in retail or finance sectors.