District police raided a dozen small stores Monday, arresting 16 people who authorities said were dealing in stolen goods, including electronics, baby formula and over-the-counter drugs.
Police spokeswoman Gwen Crump said the three-week operation was launched to combat a rash of thefts including snatch-and-grabs and thefts from autos.
The 16 people were each charged with trafficking in stolen goods and receiving stolen property.
Police officers executed search warrants at 12 businesses, including convenience stores, gas stations and carry-outs. Police recovered cell phones and tablet computers including iPhones and iPads, baby formula and drug paraphernalia.
“This announcement should make a couple of things clear — if you are a criminal and committing thefts or robberies in the District of Columbia, we will find you, arrest you and bring you to justice,” said Mayor Vincent Gray.
The District’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs also participated in the operations, handing out about $12,000 worth of fines.
– Scott McCabe
