ENCINITAS — Two men have been arrested in connection with a series of organized retail thefts in Encinitas involving nearly $6,700 in stolen goods, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
On Aug. 29, deputies from the North Coastal Sheriff’s Station responded to a reported theft at the REI store in the 1500 block of Leucadia Boulevard.
Authorities said a suspect, identified as 60-year-old Daniel Dipinto, fled the scene in a black Audi after allegedly stealing a Yeti cooler valued at nearly $300. The vehicle matched descriptions linked to previous shoplifting incidents in the area.
Investigators from the Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) Unit connected Dipinto to additional thefts at multiple stores, including Target, REI, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Authorities said stolen items included Yeti coolers, Legos, Tumi bags and women’s clothing.
The investigation also led deputies to identify 34-year-old Omar Najera as an alleged accomplice. Officials allege Najera provided Dipinto with stolen credit card numbers in exchange for merchandise obtained during the thefts.
Najera was arrested on Nov. 6 in Encinitas, and Dipinto was apprehended in Mission Valley. Deputies reported recovering additional stolen items following the arrests.
Both men face multiple charges related to theft and identity fraud.
