BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Two people were arrested for allegedly committing multiple thefts at local retailers, according to the Bakersfield Police Department.

On Jan. 20, BPD’s Organized Retail Theft unit arrested Christopher Bleakley, 24, and Cole Hernandez, 30, during a blitz operation in the 1600 block of Columbus Street.

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The unit had recently concluded an investigation into two serial retail theft suspects who targeted several retailers, including Target, dd’s DISCOUNTS’ and Lowe’s, according to officials.

Bleakley was allegedly involved in 18 separate thefts resulting in a $12,925.71 loss to retailers while Hernandez is accused of being involved in 14 theft incidents and causing a loss of $6,365.05 to retailers, police said.

Bleakley was booked into the Kern County Jail on suspicion of grand theft, brandishing a weapon, possessing a narcotic, shoplifting, robbery and resisting arrest, according to investigators.

Hernandez was booked on suspicion of grand theft, fraud and identity theft, organized retail theft, conspiring to commit a crime and possessing a controlled substance, BPD said.

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The Organized Retail Theft unit has been working with local retail stores to combat crimes in Bakersfield since it was created in 2023, according to the police department.

Business owners who wish to learn more about theft prevention and partnering with the unit are encouraged to call 661-326-3053.

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