SAN MARCOS, Calif. — Two people were arrested in connection with a string of retail thefts in North County after a search uncovered nearly $200,000 in stolen merchandise, including Dom Perignon and other wines.
John Michael Mastrobuono,49, and Jenise Christine Mastrobuono, 45, were arrested by deputies on Wednesday and charged with grand theft and conspiracy.
Deputies with Vista Sheriff's Station's Community Policing and Problem-Solving Unit served John Michael and Jenise with an arrest warrant at a home located on the 100 block of La Casa Drive in San Marcos.
According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, the warrant was the result of an investigation into thefts at numerous retail stores in North County and across Southern California.
During the search, deputies recovered close to $200,000 in stolen merchandise, champagne and wine, according to Sgt. Brent Longfellow.
John Mastrobuono was booked into the Vista Detention Facility on Wednesday and was charged with two felonies, grand theft and conspiracy. He faces arraignment at 1:30 p.m. Friday, according to jail records.
Jenise Mastrobuono was booked into the Las Colinas Reentry Facility in Santee and was charged with two felonies, grand theft and conspiracy. She also faces arraignment at 1:30 p.m. Friday.
The sheriff's department says the investigation into the retail thefts across North San Diego County is ongoing.
According to the sheriff's department, Community Policing and Problem-Solving (COPPS) Unit deputies perform investigative services, provide patrol support, coordinate municipal and departmental resources to improve public safety and address quality of life issues in Vista.
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