Media Release - Operation Fade to Black Friday

On November 21 and 22, 2014, the Mesa Police Department conducted a shoplift reduction detail called Operation Fade to Black Friday. This is the second year of the operation, targeting repeat offenders and retail theft rings. Retailers worked with Mesa PD by staffing extra loss prevention officers in various stores.

A cooperative effort between Mesa detectives and patrol officers resulted in 49 arrests over the two days. Three arrests were made for Organized Retail Theft and four additional Organized Retail Theft investigations were launched as a result of the operation. The operation encompassed several thousand dollars of merchandise.

With Black Friday approaching, the Mesa Police Department recognizes the impact of shoplifters to our local retailers as they attempt to keep merchandise stocked and affordable during the holiday season. The Mesa Police Department wants the public to know we are working closely with our retailers and take all shoplift crimes seriously. Mesa PD plans to conduct more shoplift reduction projects throughout the shopping season. Special thanks are being given to Walmart, Target, CVS Pharmacy, Home Depot, JC Penny and Kohl's for their cooperation.

Here are a few of the highlights:

Anthony Grant was recognized by loss prevention when he returned to steal two cases of ammunition valued at $399, which he hid in a backpack before walking out of a store. (see first video)

Vincent Borunda was recognized by loss prevention officers for stealing Blue Ray DVDs in the past. During the operation he removed 4 DVDs valued at $152 from the packaging and hid in his pockets before paying for other merchandise. (see second video)

Edward Hill had stolen a $479 laptop six days before and was recognized by loss prevention officers when he stole a $198 Airsoft BB gun during the operation.

Brian Cochran was arrested for stealing 12 video games valued at $240. He admitted to being paid for each game he stole by a known associate.