Half a dozen suspects have been arrested in connection with an organized retail theft ring spanning multiple states, a Prince George’s County police task force and its partners announced Tuesday.
Authorities say the thieves took $500,000 worth of merchandise from at least 100 stores in Maryland, Virginia, the District, and as far away as Pennsylvania. The criminal organization allegedly used social media to sell the stolen items, which included electronics and clothing.
Prince George’s County police say the investigation into the organized scheme began in February of last year and expanded earlier this year after multiple retail thefts in the county.
“It became clear that there’s not one simple aspect of the case; it’s not shoplifting; it is not isolated theft. It’s organized theft involving individuals connected to broader criminal activity,” Prince George’s County Police Chief George Nader said.
The department also launched the Organized Retail Theft Task Force with multiple partners, including the Department of Homeland Security, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department and Maryland state police.
Investigators say the thieves created a social media page displaying pictures of stolen merchandise, or in some cases, items they didn’t even have yet. Would-be buyers would then purchase the items through an app or in person, or make a down payment.
The suspects would then sell stolen items they had — or go out and steal them so they could seal the deal, according to police.
“These are professional thieves. They come in and target merchandise specifically and take it and resell it. This wasn’t stemming from a flash-mob type incident,” Nader said.
Investigators say they learned about the theft ring through tips from the community.
On Monday, they arrested six suspects: four from Prince George’s and two from the District. During the arrests, investigators say they found drugs, a firearm and $20,000 worth of stolen merchandise with security tags.
“Today’s arrest should send a clear message to those organizations,” Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy said.
Police say the suspects had arrested before and were known to police and targeted 100 businesses, stealing from the retailers multiple times.
“I think these individuals think that they can get away with these types of crimes and not be held accountable, and we are going to hold them accountable,” said Sgt. Alicia Wheeler of Prince George’s County police’s Organized Retail Theft Task Force.
At least three of the suspects face both state and federal charges, and police say they are expected to make five additional arrests in this case.
Police said they plan to visit various retailers this week and work with them on what to do if a theft occurs at their business.
