League City police arrested a 52-year-old Houston woman Tuesday in connection with an organized retail theft operation involving more than $400,000 worth of stolen merchandise.
The Galveston County-based police department said it arrested Claudia Ivonne Higuera-Torres for her association with a major organized retail crime operation in which more than 15,000 products were stolen from 15 retail stores. She was charged with a first-degree felony count of organized retail theft.
Police said the investigation uncovered an alleged theft operation spanning multiple jurisdictions and targeting retailers across several cities and counties. Authorities say the case grew from a single reported shoplifting incident into a broader investigation involving multiple agencies and more than 15,000 stolen items.
“This investigation is a testament to the professionalism, determination, and investigative expertise of our Business District Unit,” the press release said. “Organized retail crime impacts businesses, employees, and consumers throughout our communities.”
The investigation into Higuera-Torres began after officers responded to a theft at a Sephora in League City on July 12, which led to a multi-jurisdictional probe spanning over several cities and counties.
Police said Flock Safety cameras played a “critical role” in the investigation, helping investigators identify vehicles associated with the organized retail theft operation.
A judge set Higuera-Torres’ bail at $150,000, but she remained in custody after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued an immigration detainer.