Major Cargo Theft Ring Busted in Los Angeles

On February 18, 2026, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) arrested five individuals as part of a significant cargo theft investigation. This operation, led by the LAPD's Commercial Crimes Division Cargo Theft Task Force, involved multiple agencies including the Los Angeles Port Police, the California Department of Justice Tax Recovery in the Underground Economy Program (TRUE), and the California Department of Motor Vehicles Investigations Division. The investigation targeted a series of thefts involving cargo and container chassis used for transporting shipping containers.

Police recover $5 million in property as part of cargo theft investigation involving stolen container chassisNew York PostNBC Los Angeles

The investigation culminated in the execution of three search warrants across locations in Corona, Compton, and Wilmington, California. Authorities seized an extensive array of stolen property valued at over $5 million, including 84 stolen container chassis, 11 tractors, 25 vehicles, six all-terrain vehicles, and two heavy-duty forklifts. Additionally, law enforcement recovered three handguns and approximately $301,604 in cash. The arrested individuals are:

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• Jose Del Toro Sr., 43, of Corona

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• Maria Ramos, 42, of Corona

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• Malissa Del Toro, 25, of Corona

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• Jose Del Toro Jr., 23, of Corona

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• Yairet Jimenez, 23, of Corona

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All five suspects face felony charges of grand theft and were released pending court appearances next month.

New York Post

The LAPD emphasized the significance of interagency collaboration in addressing large-scale cargo theft, which poses risks to commercial supply chains. The successful operation highlights the effectiveness of coordinated efforts among various law enforcement agencies in combating organized crime.

Police recover $5 million in property as part of cargo theft investigation involving stolen container chassis

LAPD officials stated, “Through this collaborative enforcement effort, the total estimated value of recovered property exceeds $5 million.” They also noted that the investigation is ongoing and further arrests are anticipated.

New York Post

While the investigation has been praised for its thoroughness, some critics argue that the focus on cargo theft may divert resources from other pressing crime issues in Los Angeles. They suggest that a more balanced approach is necessary to address the city's overall crime rate.

Police recover $5 million in property as part of cargo theft investigation involving stolen container chassis

As the investigation continues, authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the cargo theft ring to contact the LAPD's Commercial Crimes Division. Further developments and potential additional arrests are expected as the case unfolds.

NBC Los Angeles

• “Through this collaborative enforcement effort, the total estimated value of recovered property exceeds $5 million.” — LAPD Officials

Police recover $5 million in property as part of cargo theft investigation involving stolen container chassis

• “This case underscores the importance of interagency collaboration in combating large-scale cargo theft and preserving the integrity of commercial supply chains.” — LAPD Officials

Police recover $5 million in property as part of cargo theft investigation involving stolen container chassis