RLP NEWS
San Jose, Calif. — A man allegedly responsible for a retail theft spree across San Jose has been arrested and is now in custody. Johnny Pena is accused of stealing thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from 113 local businesses, including major retailers such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Target, according to the San Jose Police Department.
The city’s Organized Retail Theft Unit began investigating Pena in March, following reports of thefts affecting dozens of stores. After months of gathering evidence, police arrested Pena on October 28, booking him into the Elmwood Men’s Correctional Complex for grand theft. Jail records show he is being held without bail.
“Retail theft harms our economy, levies a theft tax on working families, and makes us all feel less safe,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan stated, emphasizing the impact of organized theft on the community. Police Chief Paul Joseph also commented on the arrest, noting, “This is an example of someone who has a blatant disregard for the law, victimizing over one hundred businesses here in San José.”
The investigation was funded in part by an $8.4 million grant awarded to the department’s Organized Retail Theft Unit, supporting efforts to combat retail theft rings in the area.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about additional retail thefts to reach out to Detective David Moody at david.moody@sanjoseca.gov or call (408) 277-4166.