A Quincy woman with a history of criminal activities was busted for shoplifting and drug charges after Boston police responded to a theft at Macy's in South Bay Mall. Taylor Lacorte, 35, was arraigned last week, facing allegations involving heroin trafficking and possession of other controlled substances, as Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced.
Lacorte, who has a 16-page criminal record, was charged with trafficking heroin over 36 grams among other drug-related charges and shoplifting after concealing a pair of sneakers valued at $89.00. An inquiry into her name revealed six outstanding warrants and past convictions for various crimes including shoplifting, breaking and entering, and credit card fraud. According to the district attorney's office, Lacorte’s bail from an a pending case was revoked, and an additional $5,000 bail was set for the new charges.
Store employees and police have previously tangled with Lacorte, who has been caught shoplifting on multiple occasions and banned by the store management. In the incident leading to her latest arrest on February 15, Lacorte resisted and claimed to be pregnant and unable to breathe, resulting in her being transported to a local hospital. During a subsequent search, officers discovered more than 42 grams of a substance believed to be heroin, along with suspected cocaine and crack cocaine, plus $310 in cash.
In the wake of the arrest, Hayden emphasized a strategic approach to retail crime for the safety of employees and the local community affected by high rates of shoplifting. "We are being mindful and strategic in our approach to retail crime, with special consideration for the safety of store employees and the impact on the community when retailers close shop because of rampant shoplifting or other issues," Hayden said. The office is in talks with area retailers to identify chronic offenders and devise appropriate responses. Despite her history, Lacorte is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Suffolk County District Attorney's Office serves several communities and handles thousands of cases annually, employing a considerable staff dedicated to the practice of law and community safety. Lacorte is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on March 5.
