California Attorney General Rob Bonta, in collaboration with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and other partnering agencies, announced significant developments today in the prosecution of a multijurisdictional organized retail theft operation targeting Walmart and Target locations. The sentencing of three individuals involved—Lawrence Fountain, Kevin Hawkins, and Zaniyah Hoilfield—follows a series of robberies resulting in a total loss exceeding $130,000.
The trio pleaded guilty to felony charges encompassing organized retail theft, robbery, and attempted robbery. Lawrence Fountain, identified as the lead defendant, has agreed to a six-year state prison sentence for his role in the crimes.
The orchestrated thefts, which began in February 2022, involved a total of at least five suspects who targeted stores by stealing video game consoles while resorting to threats of physical violence against employees.
“Violent organized retail theft erodes the feeling of security in our state and has negative consequences for businesses, retailers, and consumers alike,” remarked Attorney General Rob Bonta. “I express my gratitude to our law enforcement allies for their diligent efforts in apprehending these individuals, as well as for our ongoing collaboration to combat organized retail theft. Through this sentencing and these charges, we are taking proactive steps towards ensuring that these bad actors are held responsible for their actions.”