5 charged in multicounty retail theft ring that operated in Berks

Five men have been charged in Dauphin County for running a retail theft ring that operated this year in nine counties, including Berks.

The charges were announced Monday by the state attorney general’s office.

Those charged are Marlin Polanco, 19, no address provided; Malik McDonald, 20, Richmond Hill, N.Y.; Cartier Hardy, 20, no address provided; Homario Oldacre, 20, no address provided; and Lorenzo Walters, 20, no address provided. Each has been charged with corrupt organizations, organized retail theft and related crimes.

Polanco, McDonald and Oldacre are in custody. Hardy and Walters have not yet been apprehended, officials said.

According to the attorney general’s office:

The five men operated a retail theft ring between Feb. 28 and May 30. The group is accused of stealing over-the-counter medications and other health and beauty products from major retailers including Giant, Weis Market and Wegmans in 40 documented incidents across nine counties.

The thefts occurred in Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, York, Lancaster, Union, Lehigh, Chester and Northumberland counties. The total value of stolen goods is estimated to be worth more than $71,000.

“These thefts not only impact businesses but also harm our communities by affecting the availability of essential products,” state Attorney General Michelle Henry said in a statement announcing the charges. “The collaboration between my office, multiple district attorneys and local police departments has been instrumental in fighting for justice. Our commitment is to tackle these crimes head-on to protect our communities from these harmful actions.”

Source: Berkshire mont