Social Media Tips Lead To Arrest Of Shrimp Thief: North Haven PD

NORTH HAVEN, CT — Police are crediting tips received from the public on social media with helping to solve a case and leading to the arrest of a woman accused of stealing shrimp and a gift card from Stop & Shop in North Haven.

On Feb. 10, police posted surveillance photos of two women were involved in a theft at Stop & Shop. Police said the women entered the store and placed several bags of frozen shrimp in a store bag and attempted to return the items at the customer service desk for cash, even though they never paid for them. Since they didn’t have a receipt for the shrimp, they were given a $64 gift card and they then left the store with the gift card and shrimp, according to police.

“We received over 250 comments, mostly making light of the crime or criticizing store policy,” police wrote in a post on Facebook. “In addition to that, the investigating officer also received over 15 tips. The officer was able to identify a suspect and obtain a warrant for her arrest.”

Shamira White, 29, of Waterbury, was taken into custody Tuesday while at court for unrelated charges, according to police. She was charged with sixth-degree larceny.

“While we understand this is a low priority incident, it is a perfect example of the use of social media and the public’s help,” police said. “That a case which otherwise would go unsolved, resulted in an arrest. We thank all those who monitor our page and assist our department with tips.”