Overview

A man from Santa Clarita has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to a crime tourism operation that involved sending thieves from abroad to commit various crimes across the United States. Prosecutors allege that Juan Carlos Thola-Duran and his girlfriend were the masterminds behind this extensive scheme, which included shoplifting and credit card fraud.

Key details

  • Juan Carlos Thola-Duran pleaded guilty to three felonies: conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and structuring transactions to evade financial reporting requirements.
  • Thola-Duran and his girlfriend, Ana Maria Arriagada, were identified as the ringleaders of the crime tourism operation.
  • The couple operated a car rental business named Driver Power Rentals.
  • Prosecutors claim that between 2018 and 2024, Thola-Duran directed crime groups from Central and South America to travel to the U.S. for criminal activities.
  • Thieves used vehicles provided by Thola-Duran's rental company to carry out shoplifting, burglaries, and credit card theft.
  • After stealing credit cards, associates were instructed to purchase high-value items quickly at stores like Target, Best Buy, and Home Depot.
  • Thola-Duran arranged for stolen goods to be delivered to co-conspirators, sometimes using FedEx or the U.S. Postal Service.
  • It is alleged that Thola-Duran sold the stolen items for approximately $5.5 million during the operation.
  • The couple reportedly used the proceeds from their crimes to buy real estate and horses.
  • Thola-Duran is required to forfeit properties in Santa Clarita and Canoga Park, along with numerous vehicles and millions of dollars in jewelry as part of his plea agreement.
  • The operation involved a total of seven defendants, as detailed in a 46-count indictment.
  • Thola-Duran's criminal activities spanned a significant period, indicating a well-organized scheme.

Context

This case sheds light on the issue of organized crime that crosses international borders, particularly the phenomenon of crime tourism where individuals engage in theft and fraud in foreign countries.

What happens next

As part of his plea deal, Thola-Duran will face forfeiture of his assets, and further legal proceedings may follow for other defendants involved in the conspiracy.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific sentences for Thola-Duran and Arriagada, as well as the outcomes for the other defendants, have not been confirmed.