Multiple Members of Theft Ring Busted for Allegedly Stealing Over $2 Million from More Than 100 Home Depot Stores in 9 States

Home Depot Theft Ring Busted for Allegedly Stealing Over $2 Million

An organised theft ring that targeted Home Depot stores across multiple states has been uncovered, with officials reporting that over $2 million worth of merchandise was stolen. The operation, which spanned 128 store locations in nine states, involved 13 members from Queens, with authorities managing to recover around $1.5 million of the stolen goods thus far.

The Queens District Attorney, Melinda Katz, alongside Governor Kathy Hochul, announced the dismantling of the theft ring named “Operation Self Checkout”. These individuals were responsible for conducting over 300 documented thefts at various Home Depot stores, with the stolen goods amounting to $2.2 million. The recovery of products valued at $1.5 million is just the initial phase, as investigations are ongoing.

The operation, allegedly led by 52-year-old Armando Diaz, involved meticulous planning. The group would convene daily at 5:30 a.m. to strategise their thefts, targeting Home Depot stores not only in New York but also in eight other states. Reports suggest that the group managed to obtain goods ranging from $1,800 to $35,000 per day, with instances of hitting the same store multiple times in a single day.

According to Katz, the thefts were carried out by concealing targeted items in carts or large bins, before discreetly removing them from the stores. The group operated with precision, using earbuds for communication, with Diaz directing the members as they navigated through the stores separately. Officials have shared security footage to illustrate the elaborate strategies employed by the theft ring.

The illicit activities of the ring came to light in June 2024 during surveillance for an unrelated matter. Air conditioners were among the frequently stolen items, alongside insulation kits, power tools, and various safety devices. The stolen goods were reportedly sold through black market channels, including a Brooklyn storefront and online platforms like Facebook Marketplace.

Following an extensive investigation, authorities identified and charged 11 members of the ring, each facing a 780-count indictment that includes charges of conspiracy, grand larceny, and possession of stolen property. One member remains at large, with another in custody awaiting arraignment on a separate matter.

Scott Glenn, Vice President of Asset Protection at Home Depot, commended the efforts in dismantling the organised retail crime, highlighting the significant losses incurred by the company over the years. Glenn emphasised the broader issue of organised retail crime affecting retail establishments nationwide, expressing gratitude for the collaborative work that led to dismantling this criminal enterprise.

The crackdown on this elaborate theft ring serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by organised retail crime and the importance of collaborative efforts to combat such illicit activities. As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, the recovery of stolen goods marks a significant milestone in holding accountable those involved in such criminal operations.