Austin’s Mall Scene Erupts in Shoplifting Spree: Suspects Caught in Wild Theft Rampage

Austin’s Mall Scene Turns into Crime Wave: A Shoplifting Spree!

Hey there, Austin! It looks like our local mall scene got a bit more action than anyone bargained for lately. Several shoplifting incidents have unfolded, leading to multiple arrests, and we’re here to fill you in on all the juicy details!

Stroller Shenanigans at Kohl’s

It all started at Kohl’s on Lakeline Blvd., where four individuals were caught red-handed trying to steal items using a baby stroller. Yep, you heard it right! Who knew a stroller could be the ultimate shoplifting accessory? As the suspects tried to make their grand exit with stolen merchandise worth a whopping $1,100, the police were already hot on their trail.

When officers arrived, the suspects decided that running away was the best idea. Unfortunately for them, they left the stroller full of stolen goods behind, which was a pretty big clue. The culprits were quickly apprehended, and let’s just say that they didn’t get far. The police also found an additional $1,200 worth of stolen items from two other stores stashed away in their vehicle.

The suspects—Melain Gomez (20), Alexis Garza (25), Jessica Gomez (23), and Jesus Jimenez-Gomez (22)—are now facing charges of engaging in organized criminal activity and have been escorted to the Williamson County Jail. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, right?

AC Theft at Lowe’s

The antics didn’t end there! Next up was a guy named Javier Rios, who obviously thought he could beat the system. At Lowe’s, he made off with a brand-new AC unit valued at $2,156. Not exactly a low-key theft! The police were tipped off and swooped in just in time to catch Rios as he was leaving the store, making a dramatic exit that didn’t quite work out for him.

Turns out, Rios, 41, was a high-value repeat offender with two outstanding warrants for larceny. Classic case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time! To add frosting to this chaotic cupcake, officers later discovered a shower kit worth $609 was also stolen from another Lowe’s earlier that very day, all tucked away in Rios’ vehicle. Safe to say, he’s now facing serious charges for theft and larceny.

A Target Practice Gone Wrong

Target where a known thief named Donovan Clausen was reported fiddling with the anti-theft devices on some electronics. Employees tried to intervene as he made off with a stash of stolen items worth over $600. Clausen made a mad dash on foot, but you can guess how this story goes—he was nabbed by police near a vehicle he was meeting a woman in. Nothing says caught like meeting someone during a heist!

Officers not only recovered Clausen’s loot but also discovered additional stolen items and some narcotics in the vehicle. The total value of those additional items was about $1,050, including jewelry and beauty items. Clausen’s now looking at charges for theft and unlawful possession of a controlled substance, while his accomplice, Christina Shell, faces charges for possession of controlled substance as well.

Return of the Repeat Offender

Last but not least, we have Martin Morales, another known culprit, who was caught shoving items into a shopping cart at the same Target. After stealing some stuff, he tried to avoid the spotlight by leaving the cart behind and slipping into a vehicle. But the police were on to him! They later tracked down the vehicle and arrested Morales for theft while his getaway driver, Crystal Overby, was also taken in on an active warrant. What are the odds?

Summing It All Up!

All in all, it’s been a wild time in the Austin mall area, with over $7,500 worth of stolen goods recovered during these incidents. With these arrests, the authorities hope to send a clear message that crime doesn’t pay—even if you have a baby stroller!

So, Austin, let’s keep our eyes peeled and stay alert while we enjoy our shopping trips. Who knew that the world of retail could turn so thrilling?