CALIFORNIA THEFT RING BROKENSix Arrested for Alleged Involvement in Manteca Theft RingManteca police have arrested six suspects and recovered a substantial amount of stolen property in what authorities say appears to be an active fencing ring.

The arrests followed the theft of a computer and vehicle belonging to an Internal Revenue Service employee. The woman, who has not been identified, put up a $250 reward for the return of the computer. A man identified as Scott Hamilton reportedly called her and arranged to meet her to return the computer. The woman informed the Manteca Police Department and officers also showed up at the meeting. Hamilton was arrested on a stolen property charge.

According to investigators. Hamilton told them where other stolen merchandise could be found. On Saturday, police went to a home in central Manteca and found a stash of tools, a motorcycle, a bicycle and an auto diagnostic machine belonging to the Manteca Unified School District. Four individuals were arrested on outstanding warrant and drug charges. "Several different subjects had been stealing, going to the homeowner for money, or drugs, or other property", said police spokesperson Richard Smigelski.

The homeowner, Richard Carter, was arrested on suspicion of receiving stolen property and tampering with property serial numbers.

Police say theft victims should contact the department and be able to show proof of property ownership. They warn that might be difficult because serial numbers on much of merchandise was scratched off.