Rappers Among Suspects In Home Depot Gift Card Theft

NORCROSS, GA — Police have identified three suspects, including two believed to be members of a local rap group, in a $4,000 gift-card theft from a Norcross Home Depot.

The theft was reported by a cashier shortly before 5 p.m. on January 15 at the store at 4136 Jimmy Carter Blvd. in Norcross.

But, while the cashier initially reported a robbery, he has since admitted to helping his friends steal the gift cards. He was arrested for false report of a crime and theft by taking on January 24, police said.

Investigators have since learned that the cards were used to get cash at several Publix grocery stores in DeKalb County.

On Monday, Gwinnett County Police said they'd received an anonymous tip identifying three of the four suspects. They are Evan Griffin, 22, Kelderick Jamal Giles, 23, and Jalen Darden, 21.

Griffin and Giles are believed to be members of a rap group called Cool Amerika.

Arrest warrants have been issued for all three on charges of felony theft by taking. Their whereabouts were unknown as of Monday afternoon, police said.

The fourth suspect remains unidentified.

The crime is similar in nature to several either perpetrated or attempted by what police believe was card fraud ring operating in and around Atlanta in December.

In one instance, a cashier was accused of loading at least 24 gift cards with $1,000 each, but not charging a patron for them. Police said the tactic had been used in at least one other theft attempt.

Anyone with information in the case is asked to contact Gwinnett County Police detectives at 770-513-5300. To remain anonymous, tipsters may contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit the Crime Stoppers website.

They may also text tips to "CRIMES." (274637)

Photos courtesy Gwinnett County Police Department