Multi-Agency Investigation
Authorities in Oregon say they have dismantled a large-scale retail theft and fencing operation linked to a flea market vendor. The Gresham Police Department, Portland Police Bureau, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office executed coordinated search warrants at both the Oregon Flea Market in Gresham and a residence in Portland.
The investigation identified 43-year-old Said Alawi of Portland as the primary suspect. Police allege Alawi used his flea market stall and his Portland home to traffic stolen goods.
Stolen Merchandise Recovered
During the searches, officers discovered thousands of items believed to be stolen from local retailers. The merchandise included clothing, hygiene products, cosmetics, and other consumer goods.
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“The retail cost of the recovered items is well over $10,000,” Gresham police said in a statement. “The items seized reflect the wide scope of organized retail crime impacting businesses across the Portland metro area.”
Authorities say Alawi was operating a fencing scheme — reselling stolen merchandise at discounted prices through his flea market booth and home-based sales.
Charges Filed
Alawi now faces multiple charges, including aggravated theft in the first degree and organized retail crime. Additional charges may follow as investigators continue cataloging the recovered goods and tracing their origins.
Organized retail crime has been an increasing focus for law enforcement, with officials noting that large-scale theft rings not only harm retailers but also impact consumers through higher prices and reduced store security.
Community Reminder
Police urged residents to remain vigilant when shopping at informal markets or secondhand outlets.
“Members of the community can assist in the fight against retail crime by remembering if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is,” police said. “If a store always has brand new, name-brand merchandise at significantly lower prices than any other retailer, there is a high chance they are re-selling stolen merchandise.”
Authorities say tips from the public and cooperation with local retailers were instrumental in building the case.
Retail Theft on the Rise
Organized retail theft has been a growing issue nationwide, with law enforcement agencies increasingly targeting fencing operations — the resale networks that allow stolen goods to enter the marketplace. According to police, operations like the one uncovered in Gresham encourage shoplifting and large-scale thefts, creating ripple effects across the community.
By taking down resale hubs, investigators hope to disrupt the broader supply chain of stolen merchandise and reduce theft-related losses for local businesses.
What’s Next
Alawi remains in custody as prosecutors prepare their case. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies are continuing to investigate whether additional suspects or locations are connected to the operation.
Police say the bust should serve as a warning to others involved in fencing schemes — and as a reminder to consumers to be cautious about where they buy their goods.
