News
Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reduction Unit – Retail Theft Operation results in Multiple Arrests
On Thursday, October 30, 2025, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) conducted an operation targeting retail theft at The Woodlands Mall and Pinecroft Shopping Center. CRU partnered with MOCONET, the Gang Unit, District 3 Patrol Hotspot, Montgomery County Constable Precinct 4, the Department of Public Safety, and multiple Retail Loss Prevention Agents from several stores within The Woodlands area.
As a result of this coordinated effort, deputies made five arrests for Felony Organized Retail Theft and four arrests for Misdemeanor Shoplifting. Approximately $6,000 worth of stolen merchandise was recovered and returned to the appropriate stores. Two organized theft crews were successfully taken off the streets.
Organized Coupon Fraud and Return Scheme
One group arrested is affiliated with a nationwide organized retail fraud network known for executing coupon scams and fraudulent merchandise return schemes. The two male suspects targeted Walmart (College Park) and Marshalls, attempting to complete their fraudulent transactions and unlawfully remove merchandise. Deputies initiated a traffic stop following the offenses and placed both individuals under arrest for Organized Retail Theft.
Preliminary investigation revealed that both suspects are residents of California and had been previously arrested in Lake County, California, on September 13, 2025, for committing an identical scheme.
Organized Theft Crew – Cuban Nationals
The second group consisted of three female suspects claiming to be from Cuba. This group entered Academy Sports + Outdoors, Nordstrom, and JCPenney, where they concealed and stole approximately $3,500 in merchandise, including clothing, YETI and Stanley tumblers, and footwear.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to working alongside retail partners and other law enforcement agencies to combat organized retail theft and protecting local businesses.
Source: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
