Bend, OR – Seven people were arrested last week during a coordinated retail theft operation in Woodburn, Oregon. The operation, which took place on Friday, was a joint effort between the Woodburn Police Department and loss prevention employees from three local businesses.
The arrested individuals face a variety of charges, including theft and possession of burglary tools. The arrests followed an investigation into ongoing theft activities in the area, which led authorities to conduct the operation.
The individuals arrested were identified as:
- Estela Laila Aguilera, 43, charged with third-degree theft, possession of burglary tools, and an outstanding arrest warrant.
- Jessica Allen, 39, charged with second-degree theft and an arrest warrant.
- Jean Lucious Baltera, 33, charged with first-degree theft.
- Chester Vance, 47, charged with first-degree theft, giving false information, and two arrest warrants.
- Samantha Cross, 34, charged with first-degree theft and two arrest warrants.
- Jesus Mendez, 55, charged with first-degree theft and four arrest warrants.
- Brenda Duarte Reyes, 30, charged with third-degree theft and three arrest warrants.
In addition to the arrests, police recovered a stolen vehicle that contained approximately $3,000 worth of stolen merchandise. The stolen items were returned to the businesses from which they had been taken.
The operation was supported by several law enforcement agencies, including the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Justice. These agencies played a key role in assisting the Woodburn Police Department in executing the mission.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the operation is part of an ongoing effort to combat retail theft in the region, but the arrests are expected to have a significant impact on crime in the area.
This operation highlights the growing concern over retail theft in Oregon, as businesses and law enforcement continue to collaborate on strategies to curb the rising tide of theft-related incidents.
