Massive Retail Theft Operation Uncovered In Woodbury: Police

WOODBURY, MN — Authorities in Woodbury say an extensive investigation discovered a criminal enterprise involving the theft of potentially $1 million worth of merchandise. Charges of felony racketeering were filed Wednesday against Randall David Simmons, 54, of Landfall and Brian James Bowling, 45, of Saint Paul.

The charges carry up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Retailers including CVS, Target, JC Penny, and Macy’s assisted in the investigation.

In June, Bowling was arrested for theft of a mattress from JC Penney in Woodbury. Woodbury police officers worked with detectives from Saint Paul to uncover what authorities are calling a "massive organized retail theft and racketeering operation."

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Bowling engaged in widespread retail theft throughout the Twin Cities metro area and then would meet with Simmons and transfer the stolen property, according to police.

The stolen items were then resold by Simmons online, investigators said.

Search warrants executed on Tuesday confirmed what detectives were investigating for months, but the amount and value of the merchandise exceeded the expectations of the detectives, according to officials.

"An entire house and multiple storage units were dedicated to storage of stolen merchandise," said Woodbury police commander Steve Wills in a statement.

"This is the largest retail theft racketeering and fencing case in the metro area," said Washington County Attorney Pete Orput said.

"Thanks to Woodbury police for uncovering this huge organized retail theft and resale operation. This is exactly the type of case the criminal racketeering statute was meant to cover. This office will bring all its resources to bear to bring these defendants to justice."

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