CARROLLTON, Ga. — Three men were arrested after police said they stole thousands of dollars worth of times from several Target locations.
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Around 5 p.m., on Jan. 15, Carrollton officers received a call from Target’s Asset Protection team regarding a group of men involved in a shoplifting spree. According to police, the suspects are known as repeat offenders at multiple Target locations.
At the time, authorities said the suspects were selecting items inside the store, while one of the suspects waited outside in the getaway car.
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When officers arrived, they spotted Daren McFarland, 40, of Calhoun, waiting in the getaway car.
Inside the store, CPD caught Gerald Griffin, 55, of Lindale, who tried to run away but was quickly caught. Police also found Jacob Smith, 27, of Dalton, inside the store. Officers said Griffin and Smith were found in possession of tools commonly used to manipulate anti-theft devices.
During the investigation, the trio admitted to visiting nine locations throughout Carrollton earlier that day. The items police found inside the vehicle were stolen from the locations.
The trio stole a total of $2,358.32 worth of merchandise, police said. The merchandise has since been returned to the stores.
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Investigators later learned that Smith had active warrants of out Floyd County for similar offenses, and Griffin had active warrants out of Bartow County. Two of the suspects were also out on bond for prior related charges.
The trio was booked into the Carroll County Jail.
“This case serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration between local businesses and law enforcement to combat crime effectively,” the Carrollton Police Department said.
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