Five people were arrested Wednesday in Corona, California, in connection with what Los Angeles police describe as a multi-million dollar cargo theft operation involving stolen container equipment, vehicles, and firearms. The arrests capped a long-running investigation led by the LAPD’s Commercial Crimes Division Cargo Theft Task Force.
A Multi-Agency Takedown
Investigators say the case centered on a series of thefts targeting cargo and container chassis, the equipment big-rig trucks use to haul shipping containers. On Wednesday, LAPD officers worked alongside the Los Angeles Port Police, the California Department of Justice’s Tax Recovery in the Underground Economy Program, and the California DMV’s Investigations Division to execute search warrants tied to the case.
What Was Recovered
Authorities reported recovering an estimated $5 million worth of stolen property. That haul included 84 stolen container chassis and 11 tractors, plus 25 vehicles, six all-terrain vehicles, and two heavy-duty forklifts believed to be tied to fraudulent vehicle identification numbers. Investigators also seized more than $300,000 in cash, three firearms, and multiple digital devices during the operation. Photos released by Los Angeles Police Department showed a lineup of seized luxury vehicles and sports cars among the recovered property, underscoring just how much of the stolen equipment had been converted into high-end personal assets.
Who Was Charged
Those arrested were identified by the LAPD as Jose Del Toro Sr., 43; Maria Ramos, 42; Malissa Del Toro, 25; Jose Del Toro Jr., 23; and Yairet Jimenez, 23, all of Corona. Each faces a felony charge of grand theft, though as with any pending case, the charges remain allegations that have not yet been proven in court.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are expected as the task force continues working the case. The five suspects have been released and are scheduled to appear in court next month.