Authorities in Bakersfield have arrested three individuals following a months-long investigation into organized retail theft that targeted multiple local businesses.
The Bakersfield Police Department’s Organized Retail Theft Unit arrested 40-year-old Miguel Nava, 23-year-old Vanessa BarreraBucio, and 26-year-old Maylysa McMannon on February 18. They face charges including robbery, grand theft, organized retail theft, and shoplifting. All three were booked into Kern County Jail.
The investigation, which began in August 2025, revealed that the trio allegedly targeted at least 12 theft incidents involving retailers such as Big 5, Home Depot, Tractor Supply, and Lowe’s. Police say the cumulative losses for these incidents totaled $19,875.03.
The arrests occurred on the 6500 block of Colony Street immediately after the suspects allegedly committed a theft at Lowe’s.
Since 2023, the Bakersfield Police Department’s ORT unit has worked closely with local retailers to combat organized retail theft, recover stolen property, and hold offenders accountable. Retail business owners interested in theft prevention and collaboration with the ORT unit can contact the Community Relations Unit at 661-326-3053.
