Police build 26 cases in Sarasota County retail theft sting

An anti-retail theft operation on the U.S. 41 corridor of North Port, in south Sarasota County, recently wrapped up, concluding in 26 cases worked with about $7,100 in items recovered. 

The North Port Police Department conducted the operation June 6-9 with a focus on national retail chain stores, according to a statement. The department worked with Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Hobby Lobby, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Goodwill. By the end of it, several individuals believed to be part of large retail theft organizations were arrested. 

The department filed 13 felony charges, 13 misdemeanor charges and multiple felony drug arrests, according to these press release. Several of those arrested were not from the North Port area, rather they came from Miami, Bradenton, Venice, Ocala and Hillsborough County.