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San Ramon, CA--A smash-and-grab robbery at Heller Jewelers in San Ramon was cited by California officials as part of broader enforcement efforts that led to the recovery of approximately $17 million in stolen retail merchandise statewide last year.

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A report in The New York Post stated that more than 20 suspects were captured on surveillance footage running toward Heller Jewelers, located about 34 miles east of San Francisco. The suspects used crowbars and pickaxes to smash display cases and steal jewelry. Authorities said gunfire occurred as the group exited after an automatic security door attempted to lock.

The incident was referenced as law enforcement detailed the scope of organized retail crime in California. Gov. Gavin Newsom said the statewide recoveries involved approximately 272,000 stolen retail items, ranging from footwear and tools to cosmetics.

The recoveries were made through operations led by the California Highway Patrol’s Retail Theft Task Force. Officials said more than 1,208 people were arrested and charged with organized retail crime during the enforcement efforts.

In addition to the Heller Jewelers robbery, officials cited other cases, including theft rings selling stolen merchandise at flea markets, which resulted in 13 arrests, the recovery of two illegal firearms, and the seizure of about $800,000 in stolen goods. Another investigation at a Sacramento Target store on Nov. 21 led to the identification of a juvenile human-trafficking victim, according to Newsom’s office.

Despite the number of organized retail theft cases, Newsom said overall crime in California is declining. "Our organized retail crime enforcement efforts are delivering real results," he said, as per the report.

Learn more in this report by The New York Post.