North Austin News

On November 22, 2024, the Austin Police Department's North Metro Tactical Response Unit and North Criminal Investigation Department collaborated with around 20 local retail representatives to execute a Shoplifting Blitz. The operation targeted areas such as The Domain, Arbor Walk, Gateway, and Arboretum Shopping Centers in North Austin. Its objective was to assist retailers by enforcing actions against suspected shoplifters.

The operation led to the arrest of two suspects for organized retail theft. At approximately 3:15 p.m., Marshall’s Loss Prevention identified two individuals engaged in activities indicative of organized retail theft. They were reportedly removing anti-theft security devices and concealing stolen items, including sneakers and wallets.

Officers on site assisted in apprehending the suspects as they exited the store with stolen merchandise still hidden on them. The suspects were detained without incident, and $312.61 worth of stolen goods along with tools used to remove anti-theft devices were recovered.

Further investigation revealed that the suspects' vehicle contained three reusable shopping bags filled with similar stolen items from Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Ross Department Stores. These items included shoes and wallets still bearing tags.

The suspects were identified as Omar Cuellar Sanchez (43 years old) and Dailena Rodriguez Herrera (27 years old). Both were arrested for Theft Class B offenses. Additional merchandise recovered from their vehicle was valued at $548.79 by Marshall’s. In total, approximately $1,000 worth of goods was retrieved from the suspect vehicle across the three retailers involved.

Anyone with information is encouraged to submit tips anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program via austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477.