Dana Point deputies responded to a theft call from West Marine on Tuesday morning involving a male suspect who reportedly fled the store with two stolen Yeti coolers.
Thanks to a detailed suspect and vehicle description, and with assistance from Flock Safety cameras, the deputies located the vehicle traveling southbound on the I-5 Freeway and conducted a traffic stop.
Through investigation, deputies determined the male subject had prior theft convictions and was arrested for petty theft with priors (CPC 666.1(a)(1)), conspiracy to commit a crime (CPC 182(a)(1)), and organized retail theft (CPC 490.4).
The female driver was also arrested for conspiracy (CPC 182(a)(1)) and organized retail theft (CPC 490.4). She also struck a vehicle while fleeing the parking lot.
The suspects were booked into jail, and their ride was towed. Safe to say, this “shopping spree” didn’t end with a relaxing beach day.
Dana Point Police Services continues to partner with local businesses and leverage technology like Flock to keep our community safe and put the freeze on retail theft.
Here’s a summary of the penalties the suspects could face in Dana Point, California:
1. Petty Theft with Priors (CPC 666.1(a)(1))
This applies when someone has prior theft convictions.
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison
2. Conspiracy to Commit a Crime (CPC 182(a)(1))
This charge is for planning a crime with others.
- If the planned crime is a felony, the penalty is the same as that felony
- If it’s a misdemeanor, it can still be charged as a felony or misdemeanor
- Penalties range from up to 1 year in jail to several years in prison
3. Organized Retail Theft (CPC 490.4)
This targets coordinated thefts from stores.
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison
Other Possible Charges
- The female suspect may face additional charges for hitting a vehicle while fleeing
- Both suspects could face fines, restitution, and probation depending on the case