Man Accused of Stealing $30K Worth of Phones From New York Store

State Police said they have arrested a man who was a part of a "highly organized retail theft" scheme involving smartphones. The suspect is accused of stealing from a retail chain in Middletown.

Retail theft remains a growing problem for many business owners across New York. Recently, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $45 million dollar plan to combat organized retail theft. by teaming up with small business owners as part of a comprehensive statewide crackdown.

As of 2022, Governor Hochul stated that "retail theft had reached $4.4 billion in 2022, which translates into a loss of $176 million in sales taxes", according to The City. Thousands of stolen mobile phones are resold every year at online "reselling sites like Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist".

Many purchasers have no idea they even purchased a stolen phone, according to RTF online.

New York Man Accused of Stealing From Middletown Walmart

New York State Police said in a press release announcing the arrest of a 35-year-old Bronx man after an investigation into a highly organized retail theft of cellular phones.

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The suspect used stolen account information from cellular customers to steal Apple and Samsung smartphones from the Middletown Walmart on State Route 211, says State Police. The alleged thefts took place on several dates in February and March 2024.

The suspect is accused of stealing over $33,000 worth of phones. The Bronx man was apprehended by members of the State Police working in conjunction with Walmart loss prevention targeting organized retail crimes.

Charges

He has been charged with 3rd degree Grand Larceny, and 1st degree Falsifying Business Records, which are both felonies. He was arraigned in the Town of Mount Hope Court, released on his own recognizance, and is due back to the Town of Wallkill Court on March 20.

20 Things You Should Avoid Buying at a Dollar Store in New York

Several publications, including Reader's Digest, warn that if you spend your hard-earned money on any of these items at a dollar store, you'll just be wasting it.

Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor

Source: Man Accused of Stealing Over $30K Worth of Phones From Hudson Valley Walmart