Gastonia Police Crack Down on Retail Theft with 28 Arrests

The Gastonia Police Department conducted an operation to crack down on retail theft at major stores in their area. The operation took place on August 4 and 6, targeting stores such as Dick's Sporting Goods, Lowe's, Academy Sports, Target, Home Depot, TJ Maxx, and Bath & Body Works.

The police department worked with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to provide surveillance and additional personnel. This collaboration led to 28 arrests, 38 misdemeanor charges, eight felony charges, and the seizure of one firearm.

The recovered merchandise is estimated to be in several thousand dollars' worth. The police department appreciated the cooperation from the businesses involved and thanked HSI and SBI for their assistance.