Five individuals have been charged in connection with an organized retail theft ring that spanned nine counties in Southeastern and South Central Pennsylvania. The suspects, identified as 19-year-old Marlin Polanco, and 20-year-olds Malik McDonald, Cartier Hardy, Homario Oldacre, and Lorenzo Walters, are alleged to have targeted major retailers, including Giant, Weis Markets, and Wegmans, in 40 documented incidents from February 28 through May 30.
The theft ring reportedly focused on over-the-counter medications and other health and beauty products, with the total value of stolen goods estimated to be worth more than $71,000. Attorney General Michelle Henry stated, "These thefts not only impact businesses but also harm our communities by affecting the availability of essential products." ABC27 reported.
While Polanco, McDonald, and Oldacre are currently in custody, Hardy and Walters remain at large. The investigation into the theft ring is ongoing.