A group of five alleged package thieves has been arrested in connection with a months‑long wave of cargo thefts targeting UPS delivery vehicles across Ventura County. Here is what we know 👇
📍 What Just Happened
Between April and October 2025, multiple cities throughout Ventura County reported thefts of packages from UPS cargo vans. Investigators estimated the total loss at about $70,000. In response, the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force (VCORTTF) launched an investigation. On November 14, 2025, law enforcement executed search warrants at three locations in Los Angeles County, arresting three suspects. Follow‑up surveillance and investigation led to two more arrests, bringing the total to five.
📋 Key Details
- The individuals arrested are identified as Herson Danilo Gutierrez‑Ferrufino (36), Chris Justin Ortiz (24), Alejandro Andres Delgado‑Mera (37), Leivin Giovanny Vera‑Diaz (39), and Ever Lisandro Lopez (38).
- Charges include felony grand theft, conspiracy to commit a crime, and possession of burglary tools.
- All five suspects are currently held at Ventura County Jail.
- Authorities indicate that additional suspects may still be at large.
🔍 Why This Matters
Cargo theft rings such as this one harm hauling companies, delivery services, and consumers. Lost or stolen packages mean financial losses, shipment delays, and eroded trust in delivery reliability. For local businesses and residents, widespread package theft can lead to higher prices, tighter delivery protocols, and more cautious online purchasing behavior.
📞 What You Can Do
Anyone who observed suspicious activity around delivery vehicles, saw unknown persons near vans at unusual hours, or has security footage capturing such incidents is urged to contact VCORTTF. You may call the task force’s tip line at 805-383-8703. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
🧠 The Bottom Line
Five men are now in custody after an organized theft scheme allegedly targeted UPS cargo vans across Ventura County. With thousands of packages reportedly stolen, the arrests mark a major disruption of the ring, but investigations continue, and public assistance remains crucial to identifying any additional suspects or victims.