Fairfax County, VA A man is in custody after allegedly orchestrating a scheme that netted over $6,500 in stolen lottery tickets across multiple locations in Fairfax County.

According to the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD), the investigation began on September 15 when officers were called to a convenience store on Chain Bridge Road in Oakton. The store’s clerk reported a theft and assault involving 39-year-old Mohammad Akhtar of Reston.

Police say that while the clerk was distracted, Akhtar slipped behind the counter and took lottery tickets. Upon the clerk’s return, a confrontation ensued, during which Akhtar assaulted him before fleeing the scene. The clerk sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Following this incident, detectives launched a broader investigation, uncovering a pattern of thefts tied to Akhtar. Between September 11 and September 25, he was linked to six separate thefts involving lottery tickets, with reports indicating he had stolen from two locations on more than one occasion.

The investigation revealed a total loss exceeding $6,500, prompting detectives to act swiftly. On September 26, police apprehended Akhtar and charged him with grand larceny, five counts of larceny by false pretense, and five counts of petit larceny.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News