Law enforcement officials in Los Angeles County have successfully dismantled a major criminal operation that was trafficking millions in stolen cargo through retail storefronts. The bust, announced August 20, recovered $4.5 million worth of stolen merchandise including electric bikes, power tools, and various appliances.
The operation targeted two locations of DJ General Tool and Wire in Montebello and Huntington Park, which were searched on August 14 and 19. Investigators discovered products from premium brands like Dyson, Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita being sold both in-store and through online channels.
The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Union Pacific Police Department, and Los Angeles Port Police. On August 14, authorities arrested 41-year-old Dojoon Park of Montebello on felony charges of receiving stolen property. Following the county’s zero-bail policy, Park was released the same day and is scheduled for a court appearance on September 8.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized the significance of the bust, stating that organized cargo and retail theft significantly impacts the economy, affecting local businesses, workers, and families. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement expecting additional arrests.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, led by Nathan Hochman, is preparing to file charges against Park. Hochman stressed that cargo theft has widespread consequences, disrupting supply chains and increasing costs for consumers while harming businesses.
The Port of Los Angeles has emerged as a significant hub for cargo-related crimes in recent years. According to data from CargoNet reported by Burns and Wilcox, cargo theft incidents in the United States and Canada reached an unprecedented 3,625 cases in 2024, marking a 27 percent increase from the previous year. California specifically saw a 33 percent rise in cargo theft incidents compared to 2023.
This latest bust follows other significant cargo theft operations in the region. In April, the LAPD apprehended two key members of a South American theft organization. Oscar David Borrero-Manchola, 41, and Yonaiker Rafael Martinez-Ramos, 25, were arrested after investigators discovered over $1.2 million in stolen merchandise, including tequila, speakers, coffee, clothing, shoes, body wash, and pet food, stored in facilities throughout the San Fernando Valley.
During that same investigation, authorities intercepted a shipment of stolen bitcoin mining computers valued at $2.7 million at Los Angeles International Airport. The equipment was about to be transported to Hong Kong when it was recovered.
The recent storefront operation bust highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized cargo theft rings. These criminal enterprises have become increasingly sophisticated, using legitimate-appearing businesses as fronts for their illegal activities. The LAPD’s successful operation demonstrates the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling these complex criminal networks that threaten the region’s economic stability and supply chain integrity.
Law enforcement officials continue to emphasize the need for vigilance and cooperation between various agencies to combat the rising tide of cargo theft. The investigation into the DJ General Tool and Wire case exemplifies how coordinated efforts between local and specialized police departments can effectively disrupt criminal enterprises that exploit vulnerabilities in the cargo transportation and retail sectors.