HARRISBURG, Pa. — Attorney General Michelle Henry announced that five individuals have been charged in connection with a significant organized retail theft operation that targeted multiple stores across nine counties in Southeastern and South Central Pennsylvania. The operation resulted in the theft of over $71,000 worth of goods over a three-month period earlier this year.
The suspects—Marlin Polanco, Malik McDonald, Cartier Hardy, Homario Oldacre, and Lorenzo Walters—face numerous charges in Dauphin County, including corrupt organizations and organized retail theft. The charges stem from 40 documented incidents between February 28 and May 30, 2024, during which the group allegedly stole over-the-counter medications, health products, and beauty items from major retailers such as Giant, Weis Markets, and Wegmans. The affected counties include Cumberland, Dauphin, York, Lancaster, Union, Lehigh, Berks, Chester, and Northumberland.
“These thefts not only impact businesses but also harm our communities by affecting the availability of essential products,” said Attorney General Henry. “The collaboration between my office, multiple district attorneys, and local police departments has been instrumental in fighting for justice. Our commitment is to tackle these crimes head-on to protect our communities from these harmful actions.”
Polanco, McDonald, and Oldacre are currently in custody, while Hardy and Walters remain at large.
The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorneys General Kelsey Ashworth and Philip McCarthy of the Organized Retail Crime Unit. Attorney General Henry reminded the public that all charges are accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
