A Southern California pawn shop owner was arrested after police found his store filled with merchandise that was allegedly stolen by organized retail thieves.
Karlen Pogosyan, 38 of Arleta, is the owner of Allrite Pawn Shop, located at 9044 Woodman Avenue in Pacoima, according to the San Fernando Police Department.
The pawn shop was suspected of operating as a “fence,” a location that buys and sells stolen property, authorities said.
On Dec. 3, police served a search warrant at the shop. During the bust, they discovered over $20,000 worth of suspected stolen merchandise. Many of the items were taken from retailers such as Target and JCPenney.
Over $20,000 worth of stolen merchandise was discovered during a retail theft bust at a pawn shop in Pacoima on Dec. 3, 2024. (San Fernando Police Department) 
Over $20,000 worth of stolen merchandise was discovered during a retail theft bust at a pawn shop in Pacoima on Dec. 3, 2024. (San Fernando Police Department) 
Over $20,000 worth of stolen merchandise was discovered during a retail theft bust at a pawn shop in Pacoima on Dec. 3, 2024. (San Fernando Police Department)
Photos of the bust showed a large collection of goods including expensive household and kitchen appliances, watches, tools, toy sets, and more.
Pogosyan was arrested and booked on one felony count of receiving stolen property. He is scheduled to appear in court later this month.
“With the holiday season underway, the SFPD urges residents to stay vigilant and take precautions to safeguard their belongings, including keeping shopping bags, purses, and wallets out of sight and securely stored,” the police department said.
