HARRISBURG — Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that three people are charged with operating a complex criminal enterprise targeting retailers — causing approximately $60,000 in losses — from stores in four central Pennsylvania counties.
Julia Robinson and Demetrius Patterson were charged Tuesday with felony counts of corrupt organizations and organized retail theft, along with related offenses. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 14. A third individual known to law enforcement is also charged and is still at large.
The trio were involved in at least 20 incidents of theft at retailers in Dauphin, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties, including T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and Home Goods stores.
Derry Township Police Department and Lower Swatara Township Police Department assisted with the investigation and arrests.
“Stealing from retailers harms businesses and their employees, as well as consumers who will ultimately pay higher prices for goods as retailers cope with losses,” Attorney General Sunday said. “I applaud the dedicated work of our Organized Crime Unit and their collaboration with the Derry Township Police Department and Lower Swatara Township Police Department in holding this coordinated theft crew accountable.”
“We are proud to have brought criminals to justice alongside the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office,” Derry Township Police Chief Garth Warner said. “This joint effort sends a clear message that organized retail theft won’t be tolerated and reflects our commitment to public safety and our community’s economic well-being.”
Investigators discovered the crew rented multiple storage units, under false identities, to store stolen merchandise. Investigators determined the crew stole from retailers to then re-sell the products online for profit.
This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Kelsey Ashworth of the Organized Retail Crime Unit. Criminal charges, and any discussion thereof, are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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