A San Jacinto man, Jason Brauner, 47, was arrested for allegedly stealing over $100,000 worth of surgical tools and skin grafts from hospitals across Southern California. Brauner, posing as a hospital employee in blue scrubs and a surgical mask, accessed restricted areas in hospitals in Rancho Mirage, Loma Linda, and Newport Beach during three separate incidents in June and July.
According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Brauner used insider knowledge to enter secure areas and steal medical supplies. He was arrested on August 6 in Del Mar after being spotted by San Diego County officers, who discovered stolen hospital equipment and clothing in his vehicle. A subsequent search of his home revealed an additional $10,000 to $25,000 worth of stolen supplies.
Brauner faces multiple charges, including grand theft, burglary, and receiving stolen property. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on August 8 and is being held on $100,000 bail at the John Benoit Detention Center. A hearing to determine if his case will be heard in Veterans Court is scheduled for August 15. Authorities believe there may be more victims and are continuing their investigation.
The East Bay Times reported that Brauner had been selling stolen items online, prompting concerns he might use the proceeds to post bail and flee. The National Organ Transplant Act prohibits the sale of human tissues, and experts like Ashley Davis from the American Association of Tissue Banks emphasize the rarity and serious security measures surrounding such thefts.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Deputy Marco Castaneda at 760-836-1600.
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