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SAN MATEO, CA — A joint effort between the police departments of San Mateo, San Bruno, and Daly City has led to the arrest of nearly 200 individuals and the recovery of tens of thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise over the past year.
The Organized Retail Theft Task Force (ORTTF), launched in November 2023, operates with funding from a multi-million dollar grant awarded by the California Board of State and Community Corrections. The initiative aims to combat rising incidents of retail theft across the three cities.
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Collaboration Yields Strong Results
In just one year, the task force has reported 189 arrests, 163 cases, and the recovery of more than $80,000 in stolen goods, according to law enforcement officials.
“The collaboration between the Daly City, San Bruno, and San Mateo police departments ensures targeted strategies and coordinated actions to address organized retail crime within our jurisdictions,” stated the San Mateo Police Department.
Authorities emphasized that the task force’s effectiveness is further strengthened through close coordination with the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office, ensuring streamlined investigations and prosecutions.
Ongoing Efforts to Curb Retail Theft
Officials from the three cities reaffirmed their commitment to tackling organized retail crime and praised the task force’s impact in enhancing public safety. They view the results as a major step forward in protecting local businesses and communities.
With continued funding and support, the ORTTF plans to expand its efforts, implementing new strategies to deter theft and hold offenders accountable.
