An organized theft ring targeted Macy’s at Cobb County’s Town Center Mall, stealing more than $16,000 in high-end clothing, police said Friday.
The Kennesaw store reported a $13,000 theft Aug. 26 and detectives quickly found a group of eight suspects ranging in age from 22 to 43, Cobb police spokesman Sgt. Dana Pierce said in a news release.
On Sept. 16, the group stole $3,000 worth of clothing from the same store, hiding them from video surveillance and removing the items in large bags.
“A portion of the stolen clothing has also been fraudulently returned for profit to various Macy’s throughout metro Atlanta by some of the known suspects,” Pierce said.
In the past three to four years, similar schemes have cost Macy’s in metro Atlanta about $100,000, Pierce said.
Only one of four people charged with felony theft by shoplifting and racketeering was arrested: 36-year-old Tawana Scott of Union City. Joyce Coleman, 43, of Atlanta; Starshal Seaborn, 26, of Atlanta; and Demetria Lathon, 25, of Atlanta, are still on the run.
Also, police are seeking four people charged with racketeering: Stacey Seaborn, 29, of Union City; Artist Coleman, 22, of Rex; Erica Wright, 24, of Atlanta; and Fredreco Collins, 29, of Riverdale.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of any of the suspects is asked to call (770) 590-5769. Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477, by text at 274637 or visit crimestoppersatlanta.org. Tipsters can also remain anonymous and be eligible for rewards of up to $2,000.
About the Author
