Retail Crime Ring Targets SoCal Shoe Stores; Cabazon Outlets Hit

CABAZON, CA — Felony charges are expected to be filed Thursday against an alleged conspirator in a theft ring that targeted retail outlets throughout the Inland Empire and other locations.

Maurice Loujean Bell, 39, of San Bernardino was arrested and booked into the Smith Correctional Facility in Banning on Tuesday on suspicion of burglary and conspiracy.

Bell is being held in lieu of $1 million bail.

His case has been submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney's Office for review.

According to sheriff's Sgt. Juan Cedeno, investigators picked up the suspect's trail following a theft at the Cabazon Outlets mall in the 48000 block of Seminole Drive, just north of Interstate 10, in Cabazon.

Cedeno alleged that, along with Bell, three other parties were involved in the theft, though their identities have not been confirmed.

Specific details regarding the alleged theft were not provided.

"The investigation revealed Bell was involved in an organized retail crime ring, targeting shoe stores throughout Southern California, with an estimated loss of over $150,000," the sergeant said.

Detectives ultimately tracked Bell to a residence on Fourth Street in San Bernardino, where he was taken into custody without incident.

Background information on the suspect was unavailable.