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.