Multiple Shoplifting Arrests Reported In Union County Over Two Weeks

SPRINGFIELD, NJ — A series of shoplifting incidents at local stores in Springfield resulted in multiple arrests over a two-week span in early June, according to authorities.

One of the larger cases came on June 1 at a pharmacy on Morris Avenue, where officers responded to a reported shoplifting in progress. Three people were detained, and $878 worth of merchandise was recovered and returned to the store, police said.

A 37-year-old Newark woman was charged with theft and possession of drug paraphernalia. A 40-year-old Irvington man and a 48-year-old Port Reading woman were also taken into custody on outstanding warrants. Following further investigation, additional theft charges were later filed against the Irvington man and the Port Reading woman.

Also on June 1, a 45-year-old Union man was charged in connection with two earlier shoplifting incidents reported at the same Morris Avenue pharmacy in March and May.

On June 4, a 32-year-old Teaneck man was charged in connection with a shoplifting incident at a convenience store on Morris Turnpike.

A week later, on June 11, officers responded to a Mountain Avenue business after employees reported that someone previously involved in a shoplifting incident had returned to the store. A 37-year-old Newark woman was arrested in connection with that case.

On June 15, officers were called to a Morris Turnpike convenience store after a report of a shoplifter who had fled on foot. Police said a person matching the description was later found in Summit.

A 49-year-old Summit man was charged with theft and possession of drug paraphernalia. Police said $90.44 worth of merchandise was recovered and returned to the business.

The incidents were among several theft-related calls handled by Springfield police during the same two-week period.