LA hardware stores were front for $4.5 million cargo theft ring
What appeared to be two ordinary hardware stores in Los Angeles were actually at the center of a major cargo theft operation that stole an estimated $4.5 million in goods from trains, trucks, and cargo ships, according to the LAPD.
The stores—DJ General Tool & Wire—located in Montebello and Huntington Park, allegedly served as distribution hubs for an organized crime network targeting Southern California’s transportation routes. The stolen goods included high-end power tools, electric bikes, and household appliances from top brands such as Dyson, Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita.
Authorities arrested Dojoon Park, 41, the owner of the stores, on suspicion of receiving stolen property. Prosecutors are preparing to file charges that could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
“We are currently evaluating all of Mr. Park’s criminal conduct, and we anticipate filing charges that carry the potential for years in state prison,” said District Attorney Nathan Hochman during a press conference on Wednesday.
The investigation was a joint effort involving the LAPD, Union Pacific Police, and Los Angeles Port Police. Investigators were able to directly link stolen cargo from various thefts to merchandise sold both in Park’s physical stores and through his online sales platforms.
LAPD officials emphasized that cargo theft is far from a victimless crime. “These crimes impact retailers, distributors, and ultimately consumers,” said Police Chief Dominic Choi. “Securing our supply chain is crucial for both public safety and the economic health of Los Angeles.”
Hochman also issued a warning to others involved in similar criminal operations: “If you’re participating in cargo theft or fencing stolen goods, know that we will prosecute aggressively.”
The term “fence” refers to individuals who knowingly buy and resell stolen merchandise, acting as intermediaries between thieves and unsuspecting customers. Police say the DJ General Tool & Wire case remains open, with further arrests expected as they work to dismantle the broader criminal network.
LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton stated that the investigation is targeting every link in the chain—from the initial theft to the final sale.
“All individuals involved—those who planned, stole, transported, and sold these goods—will be identified and charged,” Hamilton said.
This latest bust adds to a growing list of LAPD cargo theft recoveries in 2025. So far this year, police have recovered nearly $4 million in stolen goods from similar organized theft rings, including $2.7 million in stolen bitcoin-mining equipment.
Authorities noted that the operation used the appearance of legitimate retail businesses to cover large-scale distribution of stolen merchandise, reflecting a troubling rise in the sophistication of cargo theft operations across the region.
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