Memphis Businesses and Residents Face Wave of Petty Thefts, Police Seek Information on Suspects

Memphis has been experiencing a series of petty thefts, with the latest reports surfacing from a variety of local businesses. According to a social media post from the Memphis Police Department, last Wednesday, officers responded to shoplifting at Gordon’s Butcher Shop located at 3266 Thomas Street. Two suspects are cited to have walked out with bags of chicken worth around $15 without intending to pay.

These incidents seem to follow a pattern where suspects brazenly grab items and exit the establishments, clearly to choose not to pay. Last Tuesday, a similar event occurred at the Family Dollar store on Frayser Boulevard, with suspects lifting two boxes of Angel Soft tissue valued at around $40. Another incident at the same location was reported on June 7, involving the theft of two bottles of Gain laundry detergent, again totaling approximately $40.

In addition to shoplifting, porch piracy is also plaguing Memphis residents. Last Wednesday, at Trinity Lake Apartments, a package was stolen right from a resident's front step, carried out by a man described as a Black male, aged between 30-40. Another occurrence was reported last Thursday, where two suspects in a black Honda Civic were seen taking packages from porches on the 300 block of Vescovo Road.

Moreover, Marshalls on Covington Pike also fell victim to a theft last Thursday, where a male suspect made away with a hamper full of clothing items. On a similar note, Dollar General on James witnessed a shoplifting on Sunday, where a shopping cart filled with goods including household items and puzzles, estimated to be worth $50, was shoplifted. Despite these ongoing issues, thus far no arrests have been can be confirmed. The Memphis Police Department continues to emphasize that these are active investigations and urges anyone with information to reach out via their provided contact numbers.

The Memphis Police Department asks that any tips or relevant information be directed to the appropriate precinct—Austin Peay GIB can be reached at 901-636-3201 for incidents involving stores, while those with details on the porch piracy can contact Appling Farms GIB at 901-636-4402.