A Central Florida man was apprehended for allegedly stealing $10,000 from a grocery shop.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Riverview man after an eight-month theft spree at various Winn-Dixie locations.
Julian Mitchell, 44, of Riverview near Tampa, is accused of stealing roughly $10,000 worth of products from Winn-Dixie stores throughout Hillsborough County.
Mitchell was caught stealing during over 100 self-checkout transactions, according to surveillance evidence. Investigators discovered Mitchell was using the self-checkout process to avoid paying the full price before leaving the store.
Detectives discovered a consistent theft pattern at four Winn-Dixie shops around Hillsborough County. Investigators also recognized Mitchell based on his frequent use of the same loyalty number at checkout for each transaction.
Mitchell neglected to pay full price for many packs of steaks, chicken wings, laundry detergent, diapers, toilet paper, and other food items.
The Retail Theft Unit secured an arrest warrant and detained Mitchell. Mitchell was charged with retail theft ($3,000 or more) (two counts), retail theft or coordinated retail theft ($750 or more), and possession of a controlled substance.
“This arrest sends a clear message that organized retail theft will not be tolerated in Hillsborough County,” stated Sheriff Chad Chronister. Crimes like these don’t just harm businesses; they raise prices for hardworking families at the checkout line. Our store’s theft unit collaborates with our store partners to identify repeat criminals, hold them accountable, and keep our community safe.”
Investigators also discovered Mitchell was on ongoing probation for a previous Tampa Police Department case.
Mitchell was also charged with the following: Violation of Probation – Cocaine (Sale/Manufacture/Delivery), Violation of Probation – Cocaine Possession, and Violation of Probation – Marijuana.
Local law enforcement reports that the investigation is an ongoing inquiry.