New York Attorney General Letitia James announced the convictions and sentencings of individuals involved in a large retail theft operation in New York City. The operation, led by Roni Rubinov, spanned from 2017 to 2022 and resulted in the theft and resale of millions of dollars worth of goods. An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General’s Organized Crime Task Force (OCTF) and the New York City Police Department’s Grand Larceny Division recovered over $3.8 million in stolen goods.
Rubinov was convicted of Enterprise Corruption and sentenced to two and a half to seven and a half years in state prison. He forfeited approximately $2.1 million and must pay restitution exceeding $3.1 million. Thirty-five other members were also convicted.
Attorney General James stated, “This crime ring organized bands of shoplifters to rob stores throughout our city, putting both businesses and everyday New Yorkers in danger.” She credited law enforcement partners for their efforts in dismantling the scheme.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch commented on the impact, saying, “These convictions and sentences underscore the NYPD’s commitment to holding accountable any network that exploits vulnerable communities for profit.”
The investigation revealed that Rubinov’s accomplices directed thieves to steal merchandise from retailers, which was then resold online through an eBay store called Treasure-Deals-USA. Rubinov also procured Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for personal use.
Additional defendants received various sentences for charges including Attempted Enterprise Corruption, Money Laundering, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Scheme to Defraud, Conspiracy, Welfare Fraud among others.
The OCTF acknowledged assistance from multiple organizations including Homeland Security’s El Dorado Task Force II — Major Frauds Group Special Agents Michael MacDonald and Kathleen Corbett; Organized Retail Crime teams from Macy’s, CVS Pharmacy, Rite-Aid, Lowe’s; Human Resources Administration (HRA); eBay; PayPal; as well as several detectives and legal analysts involved in this extensive investigation.
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