Two arrested following retail theft investigation

Provided.

On Aug. 20 at approximately 1:55 p.m., the Tehachapi Police Department received a call for service from the Tehachapi Home Depot loss prevention, regarding two individuals they recognized as repeat retail theft offenders. Both suspects had previously been involved in multiple prior retail thefts, that had occurred in the Antelope Valley.

Officers contacted Charles Mearns, 56, of Los Angeles and Faris Batarseh, 37, of Lancaster in their vehicle as they were attempting to leave the parking lot. After a thorough investigation it was determined Mearns had a "no bail" warrant for parole violation. Mearns was found to be in possession of concealed knives, a replica firearm (BB Gun), "Billy Club" and a "Slungshot." He was charged with multiple weapons related charges (22210 PC and 21310 PC) along with his outstanding warrant charge.

It was determined both suspects were preparing items to steal when they were startled by loss preventions. Due to the multiple prior thefts, both suspects had previously been served with trespass notifications for all Home Depot locations.

Both Mearns and Batarseh were charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and trespassing (182(a)(1) PC and 602(l)(1) PC).