Shoplifting Ring Caught At Crocker Park, Police Say

WESTLAKE, OH — Five shoplifters were caught at Crocker Park this week, police said. Investigators believe the thieves have previously hit stores in Westlake and may have targeted other cities in Northeast Ohio.

At 6 p.m. on Wednesday, callers reported a shoplifting at H&M at Crocker Park. Witnesses were able to provide detailed descriptions of the suspects and officers located all five women involved in the incident.

Four of the women had been inside the store, cutting security tags from merchandise and then hiding it from staff. The fifth woman served as a lookout, police said. The shoplifters hid more than $700 worth of merchandise on Wednesday, police said.

Investigators have since linked the women to previous shoplifting incidents in Westlake. Police believe they have also targeted stores in other cities.

The shoplifting ring is composed of one 18-year-old, two 19-year-olds, one 21-year-old and one 23-year-old. All of the women are from Cleveland.

All five women have been charged with felony engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity and are currently in Westlake jail, awaiting transfer to Cuyahoga County jail.