CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The Champaign Police Department is investigating a string of retail thefts from the Meijer store on North Prospect Avenue and is again turning to the public for help through Crime Stoppers.
In addition to a previously reported theft on May 28, police say four more thefts occurred between June 1 and June 10. In each case, suspects used bags, coolers, or carts to hide merchandise and left the store without paying. While some items were recovered at the exit, police report that over $1,500 in goods were successfully stolen.
The first theft in the new wave occurred on June 1, involving a woman described as 18–25 years old, with black hair and an average build, wearing a white shirt and black Adidas pants, and carrying a beige purse. She reportedly left in a black sedan.
Three more thefts followed in quick succession beginning June 8. One of those incidents involved two suspects: a man described as 36–50 years old, wearing a white hat, black shirt, and blue shorts, and a woman between 18–25 years old with braids, wearing a white shirt and peach skirt, and carrying a black bag. They were seen leaving in a black GMC SUV.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 217-373-TIPS or submit a tip online at 373tips.com.