By Shawn Henry 
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 followed a long-running investigation led by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division Cargo Theft Task Force.
Police said the investigation focused on a series of thefts targeting cargo and container chassis used to haul shipping containers for big-rig trucks. On Wednesday, LAPD officers, working alongside the Los Angeles Port Police, the California Department of Justice Tax Recovery in the Underground Economy Program and the California Department of Motor Vehicles Investigations Division, executed search warrants tied to the case.
Authorities reported recovering an estimated $5 million worth of stolen property. Officers impounded 84 stolen container chassis and 11 tractors, along with 25 vehicles, six all-terrain vehicles and two heavy-duty forklifts believed to be associated with 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 law enforcement showed a lineup of seized luxury vehicles and sports cars among the recovered property. Police said the equipment and vehicles were tied to the alleged cargo theft activity uncovered during the investigation.
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 felony charges of grand theft.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are expected. The five suspects have been released and are scheduled to appear in court next month.
Via Los Angeles Police Department
John Lloyd