A collaborative investigation targeting Organized Retail Theft in Denton County has resulted in the recovery of an estimated $1 million in stolen merchandise, the seizure of $636,000, and the arrest of two individuals from Oak Point. The operation was led by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) in conjunction with the Allen Police Department, Irving Police Department, Oak Point Police Department, Plano Texas Police Department, Denton County Sheriff's Office, and various retailers.
The investigation revealed that the thieves travelled through the metroplex, stealing from stores in Irving, Allen, Plano, and Denton.
The investigation led to the arrest and booking into the Denton County Jail of:
- Neeraj Singh Kanyal, 36, of Oak Point, Texas, charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (a Second Degree Felony) and Theft of Property $30,000 to less than $150,000 (a Third Degree Felony).
- Ankita Kanyal, 31, of Oak Point, Texas, charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (a Second Degree Felony), Theft of Property $30,000 to less than $150,000 (a Third Degree Felony), and Interfering with Public Duties (a Class B Misdemeanor).
As a testament to the dedicated work involved, a DPS CID Special Agent received an award from the Organized Retail Crimes Association for outstanding dedication and thorough investigative work.
Authorities emphasized that the success of this operation was largely due to the strong collaboration between law enforcement agencies and retailers. The investigation remains ongoing.
