Spokane Valley Investigative Unit and Deputies Coordinate with Loss Prevention Employees to Address and Deter Chronic Retail Thefts
Spokane Valley Investigative Unit (SVIU) Detectives and Spokane Valley Deputies teamed up with Loss Prevention employees at retail stores that requested assistance dealing with chronic retail theft. During the planned 4.5-hour operation, two teams, eight Detectives/Deputies, and three Loss Prevention employees worked together, detaining 22 people and booking 10 for various charges/warrants.
On March 8, 2023, from approximately 5:00 pm and 9:30 pm, SVIU Detectives and Spokane Valley Deputies (eight total) teamed up with three Loss Prevention employees associated with four retail stores to address the continuous retail theft they have been experiencing.
One team worked in the area of the 5200-5700 block of E. Sprague, and the second team worked in the 16200-16400 block of E. Broadway. The teams successfully and lawfully detained/charged 22 people during the 4.5-hour operation and booked 10 into the Spokane County Jail for various charges/warrants.
This operation cleared up 11 Spokane County arrest warrants. Five people detained/arrested had illegal drugs (suspected Methamphetamine, Suboxone, and Fentanyl) in their possession. The drugs were seized, and they were issued drug treatment referrals as required by state law.
One vehicle with stolen license plates was located, and the driver was booked into jail for Driving while Suspended/Revoked 1st Degree.
Two people were issued misdemeanor citations and released for Theft 3rd Degree/Shoplifting, and then booked into jail on their arrest warrants.
While the teams were contacting other subjects, two people fled. They were identified and charged with Theft 3rd Degree by affidavit, and arrest warrants were requested.
Two thefts were prevented by SVIU Detectives, who contacted the possible suspects before the crime could be committed.
Eight people were issued new trespass notices from the local businesses.
Shoplifters and/or people who decide to commit theft, this is your warning. These operations will be scheduled every so often, possibly at different locations when requested and as staffing permits. If you decide to commit crimes like this, you might be contacted during one of these retail theft operations.
###