RLP NEWS
BALTIMORE, MD – Four men have been indicted for their alleged involvement in a criminal organization responsible for over $800,000 in retail burglaries and thefts across six Maryland jurisdictions, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General (OAG) announced.
The defendants, identified as members of the theft ring, face charges of participating in a criminal organization and multiple counts of theft and burglary.
- Donte Bernard Shaw, 34, of Washington, D.C., also faces charges of illegal firearm possession.
- Taquan Anthony Neal, 25, of District Heights, Maryland.
- Antonio William Polite, 35, of Hyattsville, Maryland.
- Samuel Cordell Whitmire, Jr., 29, of Alexandria, Virginia.
The indictment details a sophisticated operation involving at least 37 retail crimes since investigators became aware of the group’s activities in September 2023.
Targeted Locations and Retailers
The thefts spanned Baltimore County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Montgomery County, Queen Anne’s County, and Prince George’s County. The targeted stores included:
- Sunglass Hut
- Ulta Beauty
- LensCrafters
- Perfumania
- GameStop
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
Flash Mob Tactics and Burglaries
The OAG alleges the organization often employed “flash mob” tactics, overwhelming store employees by entering in large groups, filling bags with merchandise, and fleeing within minutes. While most of the thefts occurred during business hours, some burglaries took place outside operating hours.
Law Enforcement Efforts
“This indictment reflects a commitment to holding organized retail criminals accountable,” the OAG stated. “Their actions harm businesses, employees, and consumers across our communities.”
Authorities continue their investigation into this organized retail theft ring. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
The defendants are expected to face trial in the coming months.