JACKSON, NJ – Jackson’s Premium Outlets have been targeted for theft in recent months as Jackson Police broke up a large shoplifting ring in recent weeks. Today, the department announced the arrest of a Fort Lauderdale man who was passing counterfeit bills to vendors in the plaza.
According to Sgt. Fred Meabe, last Tuesday, a plain-clothes detective on an anti-shoplifting detail learned that two men were attempting to pass counterfeit bills at multiple stores.
“After canvassing the area, Det. Purtell was able to locate one of the suspects with the assistance of the description forwarded by dispatch,” Meabe said. “While approaching the male suspect, said suspect became aware of his presence. Det. Purtell displayed his badge and identified himself as a Jackson Police Officer. The suspect froze and became hesitant to which Det. Purtell again identified himself and advised him that he needed to speak with him.”
The suspect attempted to flee on foot, ripping the counterfeit bills as he ran from detective Purtell.
“It was at this time the suspect dropped the bags he was carrying and began running away from Det. Purtell. A foot pursuit ensued and Det. Purtell kept ordering the suspect to stop. While pursuing the suspect, he was observed reaching into his pockets and pulling out several bills that appeared to be US currency,” Meabe said.
After a quarter-mile chase, Purtell arrested Jeremy Hardy, age 26 of Fort Lauderdale. Hardy was charged with five counts of possession of counterfeit bills, destruction of evidence, obstruction and hindering apprehension.