Five suspects are facing Massachusetts shoplifting charges in Attleboro after being accused of stealing at least $2,500 in merchandise from Route 1 stores using a "boosting bag," the Sun Chronicle reported.
The defendants were arraigned in Attleboro District Court on related charges as police continue to inventory perfume, candles, alcohol, cosmetics, batteries and other items. A booster bag is a shopping bag designed to foil electronic security systems in store entrances and exits.
Prosecutors allege that the defendants were acting together to carry out the thefts. Most were ordered held in jail following the arraignment. Lavina L. Qualls, 25, of Providence; Tyris D. Nealy, 29, of Woonsocket; Dennissa J. Porter, 20, of Providence, and Robert A. Rowe, 29, of Providence. One suspect, Josue Gonzalez, 20, of Providence, was freed without bail because he has no prior criminal record.
The suspects were arrested shortly before 9 p.m. Tuesday when a patrolman spotted two women running from store security in the parking lot outside Bed, Bath and Beyond. One suspect reportedly ditched a bag of candles beneath a car. Gonzalez and Rowe, who is handicapped and uses a wheelchair, were arrested inside the car, where police found a boosting bag and numerous items of merchandise.
The items were from Victoria Secret and Ocean State Job Lot.
Still, the district attorney was forced to dismiss some of the larceny and receiving stolen property charges against some of the defendants after their defense attorneys argued police failed to establish probable cause for the vehicle search. Police cannot search your person, vehicle or other property without establishing legal grounds. When a defendant's rights are violated, an Attleboro criminal defense lawyer can frequently prevent the evidence form being used in court. A reduction or dismissal of the charges often results.
If you are charged with larceny, theft or shoplifting in Attleboro or the surrounding areas, contact Attleboro Defense Attorney Michael DelSignore to discuss your rights. The Law Offices of Michael DelSignore are conveniently located in Stoughton and Attleboro.
Call (508) 455-4755 for a free consultation, 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
