An unassuming hardware store was the front for a theft ring trafficking millions of dollars in stolen cargo and retail merchandise, according to an announcement by the Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Commercial Crimes Division, Organized Retail and Cargo Theft Unit.

In collaboration with the Union Pacific Police Department and the Los Angeles Port Police, LAPD served search warrants this month at DJ General Tool and Wire, located at two locations on the 1200 block of S. Greenwood Avenue in Montebello, and at a secondary location on the 1900 block of E. Gage Avenue in Huntington Park.

Investigators recovered an estimated $4.5 million worth of stolen property, including power tools, appliances, e-bikes, and other commercial cargo stolen from trains and cargo burglaries.

The merchandise included Dyson, Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita products, many of which were being sold both through the storefront and on online retail platforms.

“This case is a powerful example of what law enforcement can achieve when we work together,” said LAPD Chief of Police Jim McDonnell. “Organized cargo and retail theft strikes at the heart of our economy, impacting local businesses, workers, and everyday families. This operation underscores our Department’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks that profit from stolen goods. Working alongside our partners at Union Pacific Police and the Los Angeles Port Police, we’ve not only recovered millions in merchandise but also sent a clear message: if you traffic in stolen property, we will find you and hold you accountable.”

The takedown highlights the ongoing collaborative efforts among law enforcement agencies, retail partners, and cargo businesses to combat organized retail crime.

“Cargo theft is not a victimless crime. It hurts businesses, damages the supply chain, and drives up costs for everyone,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman. “More importantly, it undermines the safety of our communities. Please know that when organized crime rings exploit our transportation system, we will identify them, dismantle the operations, and hold individuals fully accountable for their actions. To be crystal clear, if you steal in Los Angeles County, we will come after you.

The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives anticipate additional arrests.