Kenosha County, WI – Authorities in Kenosha County announced the arrest of eight suspects and the recovery of more than $120,000 in stolen merchandise this week, following a months-long investigation into a cartel-linked retail theft ring.
According to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office, the Kenosha Drug Operations Group (KDOG) worked with federal and state agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to track a network tied to La Familia Michoacana, a cartel based in Mexico. Detectives say the group used stash houses, fraudulent IDs, and organized theft crews to steal millions annually across the United States.
The investigation intensified in April 2025 when deputies stopped members of the group in Madison, WI, allegedly finding $21,000 in stolen merchandise. In May, search warrants were executed in Kenosha, uncovering more than $53,000 in additional goods still bearing retail tags, along with burglary tools and evidence of the thefts. Another $16,000 in stolen items was recovered from a nearby storage unit.
Eight adults from Kenosha, Zion, IL, and Chicago, IL were taken into custody. Some posted bond but remain under ICE supervision and could face extradition to Mexico if they re-enter the U.S. Others are being held at the Kenosha County Jail.
Officials say several suspects were considered “high-level” cartel members. The Kenosha District Attorney’s Office is handling the prosecution.
Sheriff David Zoerner credited the cooperation of multiple agencies, calling the operation “a massive undertaking” and praising deputies for their role in dismantling the theft ring.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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