San Jose’s Alleged “Tool Man” Arrested in Major Retail Theft Ring Bust
The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 63-year-old Ruben Bocanegra, also known as the “Tool Man,” in connection with an organized retail theft ring. Authorities reported that searches conducted at two locations uncovered stolen goods worth nearly $8,300. The Sheriff’s Office had been investigating Bocanegra for some time before arresting him in San Jose.
During the operation, which took place across San Jose, investigators found various stolen items, including new tools, a high-end vacuum cleaner, and a large generator, all still tagged with retail labels. A second search at a storage facility revealed even more merchandise, including unopened tool sets, liquor bottles with security caps, and $5,475 in cash.
Bocanegra, who was locally known for selling tools, was arrested and booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail. The Santa Clara Retail Theft Task Force celebrated the operation’s success, noting on social media, “We have the tools to build a case — and find the fence!”
