Massive ‘Smash-and-Grab’ Ring Uncovered: Four Accused in Multi-County Crime Spree

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HARRISBURG, PA — Charges have been filed against four individuals accused of orchestrating a series of “smash-and-grab”-style thefts targeting parked vehicles in several counties across western Pennsylvania. Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the charges on Tuesday, which are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged vehicle break-ins followed by the theft of cash from victims’ bank accounts.

The individuals charged have been identified as Amed Henderson, 32, of Pittsburgh; Shaquan Moore, 32, of Pittsburgh; Theresa Imel, 43, of Dravosburg; and Elizabeth Madden, 33, of Elizabeth. Prosecutors allege the defendants conspired to commit thefts spanning Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Erie, Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland counties, affecting 68 victims from 19 different jurisdictions.

According to allegations, the group broke into vehicles parked in public spaces such as parks, gyms, and recreational centers, often shattering windows to gain access. Once inside, they allegedly stole items including credit cards, bank cards, checks, and identification. It is further alleged that these items were later used to access the victims’ bank accounts and withdraw funds.

“These invasive, random crimes cause financial stress and strip the victims and their communities of a sense of security,” said Attorney General Henry in a statement. “These defendants are charged with breaking into vehicles, often by smashing a window, to steal personal items, and then violating the victims even further by accessing their bank accounts.”

Investigators from multiple police departments collaborated on the case, employing various tracking methods such as surveillance footage and car rental records. It is alleged that Henderson and Moore used rental vehicles and stolen license plates to scout potential locations for the thefts.

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Court documents detail the charges against each defendant as follows:

  • Amed Henderson, 32, of Pittsburgh, is charged with:
    • Corrupt organization
    • Dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities
    • Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer
    • Criminal conspiracy
  • Shaquan Moore, 32, of Pittsburgh, is charged with:
    • Corrupt organization
    • Dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities
    • Identity theft
    • Three counts of criminal conspiracy
  • Theresa Imel, 43, of Dravosburg, is charged with:
    • Corrupt organization
    • Criminal conspiracy
    • Identity theft
  • Elizabeth Madden, 33, of Elizabeth, is charged with:
    • Corrupt organization
    • Criminal conspiracy
    • Identity theft

Prosecutors allege that the group shared proceeds from these thefts among themselves after gaining access to victims’ bank accounts. The case is being handled by Senior Deputy Attorney General Alexander Cashman.

Law enforcement officials remind the public that the charges brought forth in this case are allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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