Three suspects attempted scams and thefts at multiple stores in northeast Michigan; authorities believe the incidents may be part of a larger statewide crime ring.
Authorities in northeast Michigan are investigating a series of thefts targeting Family Dollar and Dollar General stores on Sunday, December 22, 2024. The Michigan State Police (MSP) Alpena Post is actively searching for three African American men suspected of attempting cash app scams and stealing from registers across the region. These incidents, centered in Alpena, Ossineke, and Lachine, may be connected to similar crimes statewide.
Incident Overview: Scams and Theft at Multiple Locations
The incidents began around 6:15 p.m. at the Family Dollar in Ossineke, where the suspects reportedly tried to use a fraudulent cash app barcode to scam the cashier. After failing at that location, the men moved on to other Family Dollar and Dollar General stores in Alpena and Lachine. At the Lachine Dollar General, the suspects successfully accessed a register and stole an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.
Suspect Vehicle and Description
The suspects were last seen driving a gray or silver 2017-2020 Chevrolet Equinox SUV. Surveillance images of the men and the vehicle have been shared by authorities. MSP has urged anyone with information about the suspects or the vehicle to contact the Alpena Post at (989) 354-4101.
Connection to Statewide Crime Rings
According to True North Radio Network, law enforcement officials believe the northeast Michigan incidents could be part of a larger pattern of retail thefts across the state. Similar schemes involving fraudulent transactions and register thefts have been reported in other areas of Michigan. This marks at least the second major theft operation targeting the region in 2024.
In June, two men from Florida were arrested in Alpena for stealing thousands of dollars in tools from Home Depot. That investigation revealed the suspects had also targeted five other Home Depot locations across Michigan. Police found stolen power tools in their vehicle, reinforcing concerns about organized theft rings exploiting retail stores statewide.
The Challenge of Combating Retail Theft
Thefts like these highlight the growing challenges for law enforcement and retailers in addressing organized crime operations. These incidents not only result in financial losses for businesses but also create security concerns for employees and customers. Authorities emphasize the importance of public vigilance in reporting suspicious activities to aid investigations.
What’s Next in the Investigation
The MSP Alpena Post continues to gather leads and is urging anyone with information about the suspects, their vehicle, or other related crimes to come forward. Investigators are also working with retail chains to review security footage and identify patterns linking these crimes to others in Michigan.
With thefts becoming more sophisticated and widespread, law enforcement and businesses are emphasizing enhanced security measures and improved fraud detection systems to deter future incidents.
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