Gastonia Sting Operation Nets 28 Arrests, Firearms, and Thousands in Stolen Goods
Gastonia police, along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, conducted a two-day sting operation targeting shoplifters at a dozen retail locations across the city. The operation resulted in 28 arrests, a firearm seizure, and thousands of dollars in recovered stolen merchandise.
The sting took place on August 4, and authorities reported that it produced 8 felony charges and 38 misdemeanor charges, with several arrests tied to habitual larceny, conspiracy, and drug possession. The operation involved officers, SBI agents, and HSI investigators working alongside store employees at locations including Lowe's, Target, Home Depot, and Dick's Sporting Goods.
The recovered stolen merchandise was valued in the thousands of dollars, according to police. Several of the arrests also involved drug possession cases that included fentanyl and methamphetamine. The operation demonstrates cooperation among law enforcement, the business community, and partners, with Gastonia police thanking businesses for working with officers and providing timely information.