Largest in Home Depot’s History [WATCH]

Authorities in Southern California announced Tuesday the arrest of 14 individuals accused of operating what officials described as the largest organized retail theft operation targeting Home Depot in the company’s history, with nine suspects facing felony charges.

Investigators say the group is linked to approximately 600 thefts spanning 71 Home Depot locations across multiple Southern California counties.

Officials estimate the total losses from the alleged operation exceed $10 million.

Here’s What They’re Not Telling You About Your Retirement

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman detailed the scope of the case during a press conference.

“They basically had been able to pull off over 600 different thefts from Home Depots in the surrounding counties,” Hochman said.

He added, “They must have thought life was grand. They’ve been making millions of dollars, didn’t look like anyone was going to stop them.”

Authorities identified David Ahl as a central figure in the operation.

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

Ahl, who operated a storefront known as ARIA Wholesale in Tarzana, faces 48 felony counts, including conspiracy, organized retail theft, grand theft, receiving stolen property, and money laundering.

Officials said he remains in custody at Ventura County jail with bail set at $500,000.

If convicted, Ahl could face up to 32 years in prison. Attorney information for Ahl was not immediately available.

According to Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff, the operation relied on a network of individuals referred to as “boosters,” who were tasked with stealing merchandise from retail locations.

Fryhoff said the boosters targeted high-value electrical items, including breakers, dimmers, and switches.

“Boosters would systematically steal expensive electrical components like breakers, dimmers, and switches,” Fryhoff said, noting that in some cases, suspects visited every Home Depot in Ventura County within a single day.

Officials said the stolen items were transported to Ahl’s business or residence, often concealed in trash bags or Home Depot boxes.

The boosters were also taken into custody and are being held at Ventura County jail, each with bail set at $250,000.

Warning: Account balances and purchasing power no longer tell the same story. Know in 2 minutes if your retirement is working for you.