Maryland Duo Charged With Retail Theft, Attempted Robbery in Delaware
Two Maryland residents have been charged in connection with multiple retail theft incidents and an attempted robbery in Delaware. According to Delaware State Police, Haley Barton and Matthew Osborne targeted several stores in Newark, Bear, and Christiana areas.
The investigation revealed that on June 29, Barton loaded a shopping cart with over $800 worth of power tools and equipment at Home Depot before fleeing to a pickup truck driven by Osborne. Customers followed Barton and recorded the incident, prompting her to abandon most of the stolen merchandise.
On July 27, police say Osborne attempted to stop an employee from stopping Barton as she tried to leave Shop Rite on Chestnut Hill Road without paying for over $200 worth of merchandise. During the ensuing struggle, Barton pepper-sprayed the employee while Osborne entered to assist her escape.
Osborne is charged with Attempted Robbery First Degree (Felony), Possession of Shoplifters Tools (Felony), 4 counts, and Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony), 4 counts. Barton faces similar charges, including Attempted to Commit Robbery First Degree (Felony).
The pair was arrested on Wednesday in North East, Maryland, after warrants were obtained.