Pair of silver handcuffs resting on a pale blue surface, linked together by a chain

May 4, 2026

Serial shoplifting suspect busted after $23K retail theft spree in DC

Shoplifting spree suspect nailed after $23K theft run

Washington, DC — A man accused of carrying out a string of retail thefts across Northwest Washington is now in custody after police linked him to incidents totaling more than $23,000 in stolen merchandise.

The arrests stem from a series of thefts reported between April 8 and April 29 at multiple retail locations, including stores along Connecticut Avenue, 14th Street, and G Street.

Investigators said the suspect repeatedly entered businesses and stole merchandise during daytime and evening hours over several weeks.

The case came to a close on April 29 when officers responded to a shoplifting in progress in the 1000 block of Connecticut Avenue Northwest. Police said the suspect was seen concealing merchandise before being apprehended on scene.

Officers recovered more than $1,100 worth of stolen items during the arrest.

The suspect was identified as 41-year-old Theodore Sadat Blandford of Southeast DC. He has been charged with shoplifting and multiple counts of first- and second-degree theft.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Key Points

  • Suspect linked to multiple retail thefts across Northwest DC
  • More than $23,000 in merchandise reported stolen
  • Arrest made during shoplifting incident on April 29