Always the low price? Stolen

Four brothers on Tuesday were arrested for an alleged string of thefts, including targeting both Post Falls Walmart stores.

The suspects, tied to at least 15 cases in the region, were arrested after a three-month, multi-agency investigation.

Vitaliy Kozubenko, 24, Denis, 25, Dmitriy, 18, and their juvenile brother, all of Spokane Valley, were arrested at their home without incident for multiple felony charges that include trafficking stolen property, burglary and possession of a controlled substance.

"A lot of the items were being sold on Craigslist," said Mark Goodwin, Post Falls detective, referring what led police to the arrests.

Detectives said the brothers would allegedly steal items such as high-end vacuum cleaners, carpet cleaners, sewing machines and air conditioning units, then try to sell them online.

Goodwin said police believe the suspects targeted the Post Falls Walmart stores at least six times over the past three months.

Spokane County Deputy Craig Chamberlin said the total value of the stolen merchandise is not known.

"We're still finding and collecting stolen items," Chamberlin said.

Post Falls Police Chief Scot Haug said the arrests show how law enforcement agencies in both states are collaborating on cases and how department stores in the region are now sharing theft information with each other and police.

"The information sharing has been a huge help in solving these kinds of crimes," said Haug, adding that quarterly meetings are held between store security staff and police.

In addition to the Post Falls Walmart stores, Kohl's and Fred Meyer are among the stores in the region that were allegedly targeted.

Vitaliy, Denis and their juvenile brother all have a criminal history, including theft.

Additional arrests are expected, Chamberlin said.