BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Bakersfield police said on Jan. 20, 2026, two suspects were arrested during a retail theft blitz operation on Columbus Street, who are accused of a combined previous 32 theft incidents.
The department’s Organized Retail Theft (ORT) unit arrested Christopher Bleakley, 24, and Cole Hernandez, 30, in the 1600 block of Columbus Street.
Officials said the ORT unit recently investigated Bleakley and Hernandez, accused of two serial retail theft incidents that targeted multiple retailers, including Target, DD’S Discount, and Lowe’s.
Bleakly is allegedly connected to 18 separate theft incidents resulting in a total loss of $12,925.71 to local retailers. He was booked into the Kern County Jail on multiple charges, including grand theft, brandishing a weapon, possession of a narcotic, shoplifting, robbery and resisting arrest.
Hernandez is allegedly tied to 14 separate theft incidents, resulting in a total loss of $6,365.05 to local retailers. He was booked into the Kern County Jail on multiple charges, including grand theft, fraud/identity theft, organized retail theft, conspiracy, and possession of a controlled substance.
BPD said that since the ORT unit’s inception in 2023, they have partnered with local retail locations to target organized retail theft in Bakersfield.
Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
Business owners interested in learning more about theft prevention and partnering with BPD’s ORT unit can call the Community Relations Unit at (661) 326-3053.