by Irvine, CA – A suspect has been arrested as authorities continue investigating a string of retail thefts affecting multiple Target stores across Southern California.
According to the Irvine Police Department, 29-year-old Anthony Steven Machuca of Baldwin Park was taken into custody after being identified in connection with a robbery that occurred on June 26 at the Target store located within the Irvine Spectrum Center mall.
Police said store employees witnessed Machuca approaching a cash register and “manipulating the screen,” which allowed him to open the cash drawer. When workers attempted to confront him, Machuca allegedly shoved one of the employees before fleeing the store.
Following the incident, Irvine detectives launched an investigation and were able to identify Machuca as the suspect. He was located at a hotel in Corona, where officers moved in to make the arrest. Body camera footage released by authorities shows officers surrounding Machuca outside the hotel and placing him in handcuffs.
Investigators believe Machuca may be responsible for more than 35 additional thefts from Target stores throughout Southern California. He was arrested on charges of robbery and battery on a police officer.
No further details have been released, and the case remains under active investigation.
