Issaquah Police arrested four men Wednesday on suspicion of organized retail theft after they were seen leaving Joe’s Sports, Outdoor & More, 1185 N.W. Gilman Blvd., carrying armloads of unpaid-for merchandise.

Three men, all in their early 20s, left the store carrying coats and backpacks they had taken off the shelves and ran to a waiting Chevrolet Caprice, driven by a fourth suspect, said Issaquah Police Cmdr. Scott Behrbaum.

Several witnesses noted the license plate of the vehicle the men left in, and reported the theft to police at about noon. Officers caught up with the vehicle on Interstate 90 a few minutes later, and recovered approximately $3,000 worth of stolen merchandise in the car.

“We have to give thanks to the witness for their willingness to get involved,” Behrbaum said. “They responded quickly and were instrumental in making this arrest.”

The suspects had taken 12 to 15 jackets and several backpacks, Behrbaum said. Because of the amount stolen, the crime is classified as a class B felony, which is punishable by one to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $20,000. If charged and convicted, their sentences may vary based on the suspects’ criminal history, he said.

The charge of organized retail theft means the suspects organized and created a plan to commit the theft.

Behrbaum said most organized crimes like this are repeat crimes.

“Not necessarily in Issaquah, but this type of organized theft where several people come together … it’s usually not their first time,” he said.

All four suspects have been booked into King County Jail, according to police officials.