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APD Arrests 31, Recovers Nearly $7,000 in Stolen Merchandise During Retail Crime Operation

The Albuquerque Police Department conducted a retail crime operation which resulted in the arrests of 31 individuals and nearly $7,000 of stolen merchandise recovered.

May 9, 2023

ALBUQUERQUE- The Albuquerque Police Department conducted a retail crime operation which resulted in the arrests of 31 individuals and nearly $7,000 of stolen merchandise recovered.

During the most recent operation, detectives kept a close eye on the means of transportation used to get to and from their shoplifting offenses, and of the 31 individuals arrested, 10 of them used a city bus. At least another dozen individuals walked to and from the businesses, and a handful used their personal cars.

“We are attacking this problem from every angle, including the mode of transportation,” said Chief Harold Medina. “These crimes are contributing to the illegal drug trade and impacting our quality of life. We will continue to aggressively pursue these offenders.”

During the operation a total of $6,915.43 in stolen merchandise was recovered and 29 warrants were cleared.

APD is prioritizing retail crime, resulted in hundreds of arrests of prolific shoplifting offenders who are involved in organized crime. Through these efforts, APD has partnered with ARAPA, the Attorney General’s Office and members of the retail community to tackle the growing issue.

Below are the names of the individuals arrested:

  • Leader Platero
  • Elizabeth Lewis
  • Malachi Jolley
  • Brian Miller
  • Bow Montoya
  • Gilbert Zuni,
  • Ruben Acosta
  • Edward Fuentes
  • Anthony Chavez
  • Mario Torres
  • Jeremiah Taylor
  • Bayard Webb
  • Ryan Abdon
  • Wayne Toya
  • Gregory Beasley
  • Lorenzo Lopez
  • Esperanza Aguirre
  • Joseph Higginbotham
  • Shirlena Charley
  • Ricardo Carillo
  • Lorie Maldonado
  • Ashley Lucero
  • Ferron Mendez
  • Tomas Arellano
  • David Barcheers
  • Benjamin Lee Cody
  • Bryant Begaye
  • Billy Montoya
  • Katerina Limones
  • John Cruz