Police Think They've Cracked Big Panty Theft Ring

Police in Troy have cracked a case that may have exposed one of the biggest underwear theft rings in the country.

Reginald Murphy, 35, of Toledo, OH, was caught red-handed with about $1,000 worth of underwear believed stolen from Victoria’s Secret stores at a pair of Oakland County malls that, believe it or not, lead the nation in underwear thefts, according to reports on WJBK-TV and WXYZ-TV.

Murphy allegedly stole the delicates from Victoria’s Secret stores in the Oakland and Somerset Collection malls, two Troy malls that have reported a rash of underwear thefts in recent months. Police said they suspect Murphy may be part of a larger theft ring.

It’s unclear whether Murphy planned to keep the underwear for himself, give the lingerie to another person or resell the panties.

Police set up an undercover sting operation at Oakland Mall last week. Surveillance video showed him stuffing about $500 worth of lingerie in a bag in about 15 seconds, police said.

Murphy reportedly realized he’d been caught and took off running.

The undercover Troy officer followed Murphy on foot, a scuffle ensued in the parking lot and then continued in the back seat of Murphy’s vehicle, police said.

Three other officers joined in, bashing in the driver-side window in an attempt to get inside. One of the officers deployed his stun gun, but was unsuccessful in stopping Murphy, according to reports.

Murphy reportedly climbed into the front seat of his vehicle and took off, while still trying to fend off the undercover officer.

The officer finally subdued Murphy and police arrested him at 14 Mile Road.

Possible charges include organized retail fraud, resisting a police officer, felony assault of a police officer, and fleeing and eluding, according to reports. He may be charged with kidnapping.

Police said they found thousands of dollars worth of merchandise in the rented Nissan Altima Murphy was driving.

Murphy remains held at the Oakland County Jail on $500,000 bond.