Two men charged for organized retail theft in East Bay

Prosecutors in Alameda County have charged two individuals, Juan Manuel Diaz Ramirez and Juan Manuel Diaz Tejada, for their involvement in organized retail thefts at Home Depot locations in Hayward and Newark. The alleged thefts occurred between December 14, 2022, and March 21, 2023, resulting in losses exceeding $100,000. The charges include felony counts of embezzlement, commercial burglary, grand theft, and organized retail theft in concert. The District Attorney's Office, led by Pamela Price, highlighted that the prosecution of these cases was supported by a $2 million state grant aimed at combating organized retail theft. This funding was matched by the office last November, allowing for the establishment of new prosecution units across California. Alameda County is one of 13 district attorney's offices that received this funding to enhance their efforts against such crimes. If convicted, Ramirez could face a maximum sentence of seven years in prison, while Tejada could face up to three years and eight months. The arraignment for both defendants is scheduled for September 19, where they will face the charges brought against them. This case underscores the growing concern over organized retail theft in California and the proactive measures being taken by law enforcement to address the issue. The collaboration between state funding and local prosecution efforts aims to deter such criminal activities and hold offenders accountable for their actions.