Southern California authorities uncovered a criminal ring responsible for stealing $10 million worth of merchandise from Home Depot stores over several years.

The group conducted approximately 600 thefts in the current year alone.

The big picture: Prosecutors charged nine individuals in a 48-count criminal complaint related to thefts at 71 different Home Depot locations across multiple counties. • The ring targeted high-end electrical items such as circuit breakers and outlets, which were highly sought after on the black market. • David Ahl, 59, identified as the leader of the theft operation, resold stolen merchandise through his electronics business, Arya Wholesale, located in the San Fernando Valley. • Ahl faces up to 32 years in prison if convicted of organized retail theft and

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