Delaware State Police Thwart Organized Cigarette Theft Ring Targeting Wawa Stores

Delaware State Police Thwart Organized Cigarette Theft Ring Targeting Wawa Stores
Wawa convenience store.

New Castle County, DE – In a swift response to organized retail theft, Delaware State Police arrested three individuals involved in a series of cigarette thefts from Wawa locations across New Castle County.

On February 14, 2024, officers were dispatched to two separate Wawa stores following reports of shoplifting incidents involving a masked individual who stole cigarettes and fled without payment. The suspect was seen leaving the scenes in a gray Chrysler 200, accompanied by two women.

A further investigation led to the apprehension of Robert Wheeler, 47, of Wilmington, Kristina Dorsey, 37, of Elkton, and Amanda Ensor, 39, of New Castle, after a patrolling trooper stopped their vehicle.

Further investigation revealed that Wheeler attempted to conceal his identity by impersonating a relative. His true identity was later confirmed, revealing he was on probation and wanted on an active arrest warrant. The trio is connected to additional thefts at Wawa stores on February 6 and February 12, 2024, highlighting a pattern of targeted shoplifting operations.

The coordinated efforts of the Delaware State Police have led to the arrest of these individuals, underscoring the department’s commitment to combating organized retail crime and ensuring community safety.