HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General this week announced numerous charges against five individuals accused of orchestrating an organized retail theft spree across nine counties in Pennsylvania. This operation reportedly took place over three months earlier this year.
The individuals, identified as Marlin Polanco, Malik McDonald, Cartier Hardy, Homario Oldacre, and Lorenzo Walters, face charges in Dauphin County. The allegations include corrupt organizations and organized retail theft. The group allegedly targeted major retailers such as Giant, Weis Markets, and Wegmans. Authorities documented 40 incidents spanning counties including Cumberland, Dauphin, York, Lancaster, Union, Lehigh, Berks, Chester, and Northumberland. The estimated value of the stolen goods exceeds $71,000.
“These thefts not only impact businesses but also harm our communities by affecting the availability of essential products,” stated Attorney General Henry. She emphasized the crucial role of collaboration among her office, district attorneys, and local police in addressing these crimes. “Our commitment is to tackle these crimes head-on to protect our communities from these harmful actions.”
Currently, Polanco, McDonald, and Oldacre are in custody, while Hardy and Walters remain at large. The prosecution of this case is handled by Deputy Attorneys General Kelsey Ashworth and Philip McCarthy of the Organized Retail Crime Unit. It is important to remember that all charges are accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.