65-Year-Old Woman Charged in Retail Theft Case After Police Seize Stolen Merchandise

Miami Standard (Los Angeles, CA) – A woman from Southern California has been taken into custody and faces charges following a significant operation where law enforcement confiscated more than $350,000 in stolen goods.

Authorities launched an investigation into a retail theft incident, executing a search warrant at a store located at the intersection of 6th and Alvarado Streets, opposite MacArthur Park in the Westlake area of Los Angeles, on March 5.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the shop was reportedly owned by 65-year-old Blanca Escobar from Los Angeles.

Authorities uncovered a vast stockroom within the store, packed with shelves brimming with pilfered goods.

Images of the display revealed an impressive assortment of beauty and wellness products, skincare essentials, footwear, apparel, drinkware, accessories, and beyond.

Retailers such as Ross, TJ Maxx, Macy’s, Target, CVS, Walgreens, and Kroger reported thefts of their merchandise. Officials reported that the approximate retail worth of the pilfered items exceeded $350,000.

Authorities discovered unlawful gaming machines at the establishment.

Authorities reported that the sheer volume of items necessitated the rental of a U-Haul truck for their removal. Escobar was taken into custody at the location.

On March 27, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that she faced eight felony charges for receiving stolen property valued over $950, along with one misdemeanour charge related to gaming activities.

She is also confronted with accusations suggesting that the offences displayed a level of planning, sophistication, and professionalism.

“This case is an important step toward cleaning up MacArthur Park, a community that has long struggled with crime and safety concerns,” said L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman. “Combating organized retail theft in close partnership with LAPD and other law enforcement is a priority for my administration. My office will vigorously prosecute this case and send an unmistakable message to criminals: Retail theft will not be tolerated under my watch.”

A hearing for arraignment is scheduled for May 22. Should the charges be upheld, Escobar could be looking at a sentence of eight years and six months behind bars. She is still free and has been instructed to appear for the upcoming court date.