Pennsylvania Attorney General Accuses 9 of Profiting $850,000 from Retail Theft Refund Program

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Nine people have been charged as part of a shoplifting scheme that netted $850,000 from TJ Maxx, HomeGoods and Marshalls stores in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania attorney general’s office says three alleged ring leaders and six others are charged with stealing merchandise, altering receipts and filing reports that led to large payouts.

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The organization focused on more than 1,000 stores in nine different states, but most of the transitions took place in southeastern Pennsylvania, in and around the suburbs of Philadelphia.

The alleged ringleaders are Davon Whitfield, 40, of Roslyn; Naima Scott, 47, of Abington; and Zonay Griffin, 26, of Philadelphia.

The attorney general’s office alleged that the trio made approximately 1,500 transactions worth more than $700,000 in payouts. They are accused of numerous crimes, including corrupt organizations, organized shoplifting, forgery and conspiracy.

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Six other alleged members of the charged organization are Shakeira Vivan, Miara Armstead, Harry Anderson, Lamar Washington, Jasmine Reese and Myles Hartman.

“This was a sophisticated, highly profitable scheme that involved hundreds of transactions that circumvented return policy – but make no mistake, this conduct is theft,” said Attorney General Michelle Henry. “I want to thank our partners at the Pennsylvania State Police and my staff for conducting a thorough investigation, as well as the dedicated work of the grand jurors.”

“These crimes affect not only retailers, but also the communities they serve. Retail theft harms us all by driving up the prices of essential goods,” said PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris. “The Pennsylvania State Police and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting our communities from the selfish actions of those who seek financial gain from these types of crimes.”

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