$11.5K In Stolen Products Found In Living Room: Hillsborough Sheriff

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — More than $11,500 worth of stolen merchandise was recovered during an investigation into a spree of thefts targeting “retail giants,” according to a Hillsborough County news release.

Christopher Hawkins, 37, and Thianna Robinson, 23, were responsible for six thefts from Target and Home Depot stores in Hillsborough County and are responsible for thefts in other counties, as well, the sheriff’s office said.

The thefts were investigated by the HCSO’s Organized Retail Theft Working Group.

Members of the group arranged to buy stolen merchandise from the pair on Tuesday. When Hawkins arrived with some of the stolen items, he was arrested.

Deputies obtained a search warrant for his home, where they found “a staggering amount of tools, electronics and other stolen items under blankets in piles on the living room floor,” the sheriff’s office said.

"The meticulous investigation of our Organized Retail Theft Working Group exemplifies our detailed and diligent efforts in combating this crime. This successful operation not only brought a suspect to justice but also reclaimed over $11,500 in stolen goods," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Let this serve as a warning: retail theft is not a victimless crime, and we will undoubtedly pursue those who aim to disrupt our local economy."

Hawkins faces multiple charges, including retail theft of $3,000 or more and dealing in stolen property.

A felony arrest warrant has been issued for Robinson. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact HCSO at 813-247-8200.