Four people arrested in connection with dozens of high-value thefts in Austin

AUSTIN, Texas – Four people have been arrested in connection with more than a dozen high-value thefts in Austin, police said.

Austin Police said the Austin Police Department’s (APD) North Metro Tactical Response Unit began an organized shoplifting investigation in early September 2024.

A Victoria’s Secret investigator identified three people linked to more than a dozen high-value thefts that resulted in significant losses to the company.

The same suspects were also involved in more thefts in Central Texas.

Sofia Hernandez, 20, Angelica Chavez, 24, Joe Garcia, 37, and Lisa Vasquez, 30 – all of Austin – were arrested for theft-related crimes.

Investigators also conducted two searches. Agents found more than 2,000 suspected stolen merchandise from more than 40 different retailers.

Police said the merchandise was valued at approximately $57,000. A stolen weapon was also found during the search.

Anyone with any information can submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.