
The 25-year-old Christopher Blancas is suspected of stealing thousands of dollars in merchandise from Marshalls and Target in Hazel Dell over the past year
On Tuesday (Aug. 27) Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies arrested Christopher Blancas (25) on dozens of retail theft charges.
Blancas is suspected of stealing thousands of dollars in merchandise from Marshalls and Target in Hazel Dell over the past year.
CCSO’s Tactical Detective Unit (TDU) previously identified Blancas as the suspect in more than 30 theft cases dating back to June 2023. During multiple thefts, Blancas wore a face mask and used tools to cut off anti-theft devices. When confronted by store employees or loss prevention officers, Blancas was uncooperative or fled.
On Aug. 27, CCSO Deputy Michael Gonzalez and his K9 partner Knox patrolled near the Safeway in Hazel Dell. Dep. Gonzalez observed Blancas walking outside the store and recognized him as the suspect in a string of retail thefts.
Dep. Gonzalez and Dep. Ryan Bylsma placed Blancas into custody without incident. Blancas admitted to multiple thefts.
Blancas is suspected of committing 14 thefts at Target and 18 at Marshalls.
His charges include:
- Organized retail theft (RCW 9A.56.350)
- Retail theft with special circumstances (RCW 9A.56.360)
- Theft in the third degree (RCW 9A.56.050)
“We know retail theft is a concern in our community,’’ read a CCSO statement Friday. “In the past few months, CCSO has worked alongside local businesses to increase targeted missions to combat retail theft in Clark County.
“Often, retail theft suspects are not stealing items for personal use but are part of organized theft rings that steal items to be sold for cash or returned to stores for a fraudulent ‘refund,’’’ the statement continues. “Many of these subjects are also involved in other crimes, such as vehicle theft, illegal possession of firearms, drug distribution, identity theft, and more.
“These missions aim not only to disrupt retail thefts but also to impact additional associated criminal activity. The Clark County Sheriff’s Office and our retail partners will continue conducting retail theft missions in our community. Those engaging in retail theft in Clark County will be arrested and jailed.’’
Information provided by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.
Also read:
- C-TRAN seeks public’s input on September 2025 Service Change ConceptsC-TRAN is gathering public input on 2025 service changes, including new routes and expanding its on-demand ride-share, The Current.
- Bill amending parents’ rights initiative passes another hurdle in the WA HouseESSB 5181, a bill modifying Washington’s parents’ rights initiative, advances amid sharp debate over student autonomy and parental access to information.
- Opinion: Bill limiting notifications for parents passes committeeA Washington Policy Center column critiques SB 5181, which would reduce parental notification rights in Washington public schools.
- Seattle City Council approves resolution recognizing failure of ‘defund the police’Seattle City Council passes resolution reversing defund-the-police stance and recommits to supporting public safety and law enforcement reforms.
- Sidewalk and ramp construction work in unincorporated Clark County begins in early AprilClark County Public Works to begin sidewalk and ramp upgrades in Vancouver to meet ADA standards, enhancing pedestrian safety.
- Letter: ‘Public safety is the backbone of a thriving community’Zach Goodman urges Camas and Washougal voters to support the RFA.
- Letter: Blood on their hands — A call for real leadership in VancouverVancouver resident Justin Forsman calls for bold new leadership in a public letter.