31 arrested during Redding police operation targeting shoplifting and drugs

REDDING, California – On Wednesday, 31 people were arrested in a joint shoplifting operation conducted by Neighborhood Police, Bike Team and Shasta County Probation.

The Redding Police Department (RPD) said the operation spanned 10 stores in Redding and resulted in 31 arrests, 13 for theft and 13 for drug-related crimes. The remaining five concerned outstanding warrants.

Police shared only four of the most notable arrests, given the scale of the incidents.

The first arrest RPD highlighted was that of 31-year-old Joshua Powell. Powell was arrested on Tuesday, just a day before the operation. Powell was released from the hospital almost immediately after leaving the Shasta County Jail for an injury related to what RPD said was narcotic overuse.

On Wednesday, Powell was arrested for the second time in just two days as a result of the operation. During his arrest on Tuesday, seven children were taken into protective custody because RPD found them in his home, which was in poor conditions, with animal feces and soiled diapers all over the floor, RPD said.

The second notable arrest was that of 26-year-old Joseph Pimental of Redding. RPD said Pimental was caught attempting to steal $750 worth of merchandise from Kohl’s by stuffing items into a duffel bag. RPD said Pimental was captured by police while trying to escape through an emergency exit and booked into the Shasta County Jail.

The third arrest was 54-year-old Jenna Glover of Redding, who RPD said once sold about $650 worth of items on her person and in her belongings at Kohl’s. Glover was also booked into the Shasta County Jail.

Ultimately, 39-year-old Stephanie Erkelens was arrested and booked into the Shasta County Jail for fleeing Dick’s Sporting Goods with an unpaid 49ers jersey. Police said Erkelens attempted to jump into a moving vehicle to flee the scene but was apprehended.

“As the holiday season approaches, the Redding Police Department will continue to conduct shoplifting operations to protect local businesses. A reminder to shoppers: whether it’s Santa Claus or the police, someone could be watching you this Christmas! “, said RPD.