Four individuals have been arrested in connection with a daring theft at Macy’s in Brea Mall. The incident occurred when the group orchestrated a clever diversion by pretending that one person was experiencing a heart attack at Brea Dentistry, which is located near the popular shopping destination.
The dental team reacted promptly to what they believed was a medical emergency, but it was soon revealed that it was merely a ploy to facilitate the thieves’ escape. As the trio exited the dental office, a trail of stolen hangers and security tags was left behind, implicating them in the grand theft.
Undeterred, the group called a rideshare car to make their getaway, but their plans were foiled when the police were alerted to their location. Law enforcement officers swiftly apprehended the suspects after pulling them over.
In a surprising twist, a fourth individual was also apprehended in connection with the scheme. Louie Velasco, who initially alerted the authorities about the suspicious activity outside Macy’s, was charged with providing false information and identity theft.
Following Velasco’s report, police were informed about the grand theft at Macy’s and immediately pursued the suspects. A brief chase ensued, but the suspects ultimately managed to escape on foot after abandoning their vehicle near Laurel Elementary.
The enterprising thieves then resorted to another tactic to facilitate their escape. They returned to Brea Dentistry and feigned another medical emergency until their getaway rideshare arrived. Although all occupants in the rideshare vehicle were initially detained, the driver was later released.
The three individuals who were ultimately arrested have been identified as Jocelyn Mendoza, Sherry Rogers, and Marlon Deleon. They are facing charges related to theft and conspiracy, with Deleon receiving additional charges for providing false information, evading a police officer, and possession of a firearm.
Lt. Chris Harvey of the Brea Police Department emphasized the importance of community vigilance and reporting in swiftly resolving the incident. The active involvement of residents and their willingness to report suspicious activities played a crucial role in the successful apprehension of the suspects.
The Brea Mall incident serves as a reminder of the importance of public awareness and the vital role that communities play in maintaining safety and security in their neighborhoods.
