Authorities say they have now arrested four people in connection with an organized retail theft ring operating in the Reno/Sparks area. One other person is wanted in the alleged crime.
The Northern Nevada Repeat Offender Program (ROP) says the suspects used fake bar codes to get money or store credit when returning items at stores such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart stores throughout Washoe County.
On Wednesday, a previously wanted suspect in this case was arrested. With the public and secret Witness's assistance, 43-year-old Terry Audiss was arrested Wednesday.
Authorities say prior to this investigation, 51-year-old James Hotta was pending sentencing for other Felony cases. Hotta was booked for 3 counts of Burglary, 3 counts of Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses, 3 counts of Conspiracy, and is being held on a $100,000 cash only bail at the Washoe County Jail.
41-year-old Michael Raymundo was booked for 3 counts of Burglary, 3 counts of Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses, and 3 counts of Conspiracy.
37-year-old Leslie Fernandez was booked for Burglary, Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses, and Conspiracy.
27-year-old Jonathan Rascon is believed to have fled to California. An arrest warrant is pending.
The ROP team is comprised of Detectives from Sparks Police, Reno Police, Washoe County Sheriff's Office, and Parole & Probation.
