Shoplifting spree ends after suspect hits multiple stores

STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. — A shoplifting spree across multiple stores came to an end inside a busy shopping center after a suspect allegedly hit three different retailers in a single run.

The incident unfolded at Stafford Marketplace on Thursday, March 27, when store employees reported a suspect who had already been banned from the property had returned — and was actively stealing.

As deputies responded, another alert came in.

The same suspect had moved into a nearby Target, where he had also been previously trespassed.

When deputies made contact, the suspect was detained and admitted to stealing items from Ulta.

But that wasn’t all.

An investigation revealed he had also taken clothing from a nearby Ross, with surveillance footage later confirming thefts at both stores.

The suspect, identified as Paul Cales III, 19, of Stafford, was arrested and charged with petit larceny and trespassing.

He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Key Points

Suspect hit multiple stores in one shopping center
Admitted to thefts at Ulta and linked to Ross incident
Arrested and held without bond

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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.

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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