Retail Theft Ring Broken From Traffic Stop Per SMC Sheriff's

SAN CARLOS, CA -- A traffic stop last week resulted in two Oakland women being arrested on suspicion of running an organized retail theft ring, the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department reported.

The driver, Lavett Champagne Williams, 26, was pulled over with passenger Erisha Marie Johnson, 25, at Holly Avenue at the U.S. Highway 101 southbound onramp for various traffic violations on last Wednesday at 9:45 p.m.

While speaking with Williams, deputies discovered she had a suspended license. A records check also revealed Williams was on probation out of San Francisco and Santa Clara County for burglary, the sheriff's department added.

During a search of the vehicle, deputies found several 30-gallon trash bags filled with toiletries, over-the-counter medications, health products, and cosmetics. Many of the products still had security alarms attached to them and appeared to be stolen property.

The total value of the stolen property was about $15,000. At least two stores in San Mateo County have been confirmed as victims, according to the sheriff's unit.

Williams and Johnson were booked into San Mateo County Jail.