Operation 'Clean Sweep': Multi-Million Dollar Retail Theft Empire Crushed in Gresham

A staggering blow has been dealt to organized crime in the Pacific Northwest as Gresham Police, in a monumental joint effort with multiple law enforcement agencies, successfully dismantled a sprawling retail theft ring responsible for pilfering millions of dollars in merchandise across Oregon and Washington.

This elaborate criminal enterprise, which had plagued businesses for an extended period, saw its operations abruptly cease following a year-long, intensive investigation that culminated in a series of dramatic raids and significant arrests.

For too long, this sophisticated network operated with impunity, systematically targeting retail establishments to steal vast quantities of goods.

These weren't petty shoplifters; this was a well-oiled machine designed to acquire high-value products, which were then resold through various online marketplaces and social media platforms, transforming stolen items into illicit profits. The estimated value of the stolen merchandise, a staggering $5 million, underscores the immense scale and audacity of their criminal activities.

The investigation, spearheaded by the Gresham Police Department’s Organized Retail Theft Task Force, began its meticulous work in March 2023.

What followed was a complex and relentless pursuit, involving surveillance, intelligence gathering, and a deep dive into the shadowy world of illicit trade. This monumental task required the unified strength of several key partners, including the Multnomah County District Attorney's office, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, U.S.

Marshals Service, and various federal agencies, all working in lockstep to unravel the intricate web of this criminal syndicate.

The dawn of May 16, 2024, marked the decisive moment. Coordinated search warrants were executed at multiple locations throughout Gresham, transforming quiet neighborhoods into scenes of intense law enforcement activity.

The results were nothing short of astounding: authorities recovered thousands of items of stolen merchandise, a treasure trove of goods ranging from electronics to clothing, still in their original packaging. Beyond the products, investigators seized hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, signaling the lucrative nature of the operation, along with several vehicles, illegal drugs, and firearms, painting a grim picture of the ring's broader criminal scope.

In the wake of the raids, ten individuals believed to be central figures in the operation were taken into custody.

Those arrested include Jose Gutierrez-Alvarez, Angel Gutierrez-Alvarez, Brenda Marquez, Mayra Sanchez, Esmeralda Galvan, Jessica Sanchez, Ashley Chavez-Rivera, Miguel Sanchez, Victor Diaz, and Jonathan Garcia-Rizo. They now face a litany of serious charges, including organized retail theft, racketeering, money laundering, general theft, possession of controlled substances, and felon in possession of a firearm, reflecting the depth and breadth of their alleged criminal enterprise.

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt lauded the exceptional collaboration, emphasizing the profound impact such rings have on the community.

"Organized retail theft is not a victimless crime," Schmidt stated, highlighting that these illicit activities drive up prices for law-abiding consumers, create unsafe environments for retail workers, and erode the financial stability of local businesses. Gresham Police Chief Casey Young echoed this sentiment, commending the dedicated officers and partner agencies whose unwavering commitment brought this complex investigation to a successful close.

This bust serves as a powerful reminder that law enforcement remains vigilant against those who seek to profit from crime at the expense of our communities.

The dismantling of this multi-million dollar theft ring is a significant victory, sending a clear message that organized criminal activity will be met with resolute force and coordinated action, ensuring a safer environment for businesses and residents alike.