Ventura County, Calif. – A local jury delivered a decisive verdict on November 10, convicting Pomona native Eber Bonilla Lopez of all 27 felony counts linked to an extensive organized retail theft ring that targeted Home Depot stores throughout Southern California.
Prosecutors Highlight Impact on Businesses and Consumers
Ventura County District Attorney Nasarenko emphasized that the conviction represents a major step toward holding accountable those who run sophisticated criminal enterprises. “Organized retail theft is not a victimless crime,” Nasarenko said. “These operations hurt businesses, impact employees and ultimately drive up costs for consumers.” The district attorney’s office pledged to keep working with law‑enforcement partners to dismantle similar networks.
Details of the Theft Operation
According to the district attorney’s office, the investigation, which began in August of the previous year, identified two crews that repeatedly stole high‑value electrical components—such as dimmer switches, circuit breakers and electrical outlets—from Home Depot locations. The stolen merchandise was then funneled to a broader network of individuals who resold the items through online marketplaces and wholesale channels.
The Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force reported that the crews were linked to more than 600 thefts across Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Home Depot estimates the scheme resulted in at least $10 million in lost merchandise over several years.
Recovery and Sentencing
Investigators were able to recover at least $3.7 million in stolen Home Depot property. Senior Deputy District Attorney Brandon Ross, who prosecuted the case, praised the jurors for their careful consideration of the evidence, noting the unanimous verdict on all counts and special allegations.
Bonilla Lopez remains in custody without bail and is scheduled for a sentencing hearing on December 7, 2026. The conviction sends a clear message that organized retail theft crews will be held accountable for the damage they cause, according to Ross.
Community Reaction
Local business owners and community members expressed relief that a major theft operation has been taken down. Many noted that the removal of such criminal activity helps protect jobs, keep prices stable, and preserve the safety of retail environments for both employees and shoppers.
The case underscores the importance of coordinated law‑enforcement efforts across multiple counties to combat organized retail theft, a growing concern for retailers and consumers alike.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
