They came to work. They didn't plan on leaving in the back of a squad car. Here are five cases workers got busted for stealing midship. Number five, how a Kroger cashier allegedly took $60,000 without getting caught until now. A Kroger employee is caught stealing from the store while working as a cashier. Management contacts local police after reviewing internal surveillance footage and spotting suspicious refund activity. Thank you very much. >> Hi, how are you? >> How are you? >> Hi. >> Where your purse is? >> Um, it is under It's um under the one of the carousels on lane seven, I believe. >> Lane seven. What color is it? >> It's brown. It's brown. >> Brown. Okay. This says guest on it. >> Guest. I'll get it for you. Okay. >> So, we're going to walk over to my squad car outside. Okay. >> Okay. I'm not going to put you in handcuffs, nothing like that right now. So, we'll just walk peacefully to the squad park. Sound good? >> Thank you. >> Yeah. Am I allow? >> Okay. Thank you. >> Sorry. Yeah. >> Sorry. >> So, it's going to be on the left over here. 21 will be 108 be 108. >> You don't have anything on you, do you? >> I have my phone. >> Okay, here we're going to go over here. Do you mind getting your phone out for me? Thank you. >> Thank you. Just going to put this in my dashboard. >> Before answering any questions, the officer first reads her Miranda rightites. >> All right. How do you spell your first name? Last name, middle initial. What's your birthday? Okay. Where do you live at? Yes, I live with my mom. >> Gotcha. >> And what's the phone number for you? >> Yes. >> Barney isn't available. >> Unable to talk to you about this. I have to read your Miranda rights. Okay. >> Have you ever had your rights read you before or anything? >> Yes. >> Okay. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to talk to a lawyer and have him present with you while you are being questioned. >> If you cannot afford to hire a lawyer, one will be appointed to represent you before any questioning if you wish. You going to set any time to exercise these rights and how to answer any questions or make any statements. Do you understand each of these rights I have explained to you? >> Yes. >> Okay. Having these rights in mind, do you wish to talk to me about this? >> Say it one more time. Sorry. >> Having your rights in mind, do you wish to talk to me about this? Do you want to talk to me? >> Yeah, I can talk. >> Okay. >> So, obviously I was briefed on what was going on. Do you want to tell me what happened? >> Okay. So, I've been I've been stealing from my job at home >> and it got out of hand and then Yeah. It got out of hand and I started to become very selfish with saying and everything like that. Yeah. >> And >> during questioning, she openly admits to stealing and says the situation got out of hand over time. >> That's Yeah, that basically is what happened now. I was just still >> How How have you been stealing? >> Um uh taking money and then taking items I did not pay for. >> How are you? How are you doing that? Like were you a cashier? >> Yes, I am. Okay. >> Cashier. >> So, you would just take the money from the register or >> um I wouldn't just take it. I would like, you know, it's to a point where it didn't no matter what, I was stealing the money, but from the system, it didn't look like I was stealing the money. >> Yeah. >> Um but because I would like, you know, do refunds and coupons and stuff like that. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Yeah. Sorry. >> How much money do you think in total you took? Do you know? >> Um, >> no. I do not know. >> If you had to guess, how much do you think? >> Um, in there I said 60,000 altogether. >> Um, 60,000. Like 60,000. >> Yeah. But it could be less. It could be. Yeah, it could be less. I just guessed. >> I'm sorry. Are you saying 6,000 or 60? >> 60. altogether >> like 600 0. >> Yes. But yeah, now that I think about it, you know, cuz it Yeah, they had just like told me I was doing so I started thinking and everything. >> But I would say it was about I would say now that I'm starting to think >> and they made me go back to actually think, I would say it was probably probably less, but I do not really know. But it's it's it was way more than 10,000, I would say. >> Okay. >> More than 10,000. >> Well, I will say I very much so appreciate your honesty. >> Because she's been respectful and honest, they allow her to make a few phone calls from her personal phone before she's taken in for processing. >> So, when it comes to retail thefts and everything, anything under $300, I can write you a notice to appear. Anything over, I can't. >> So, you are going to be arrested for retail theft. Um, I will since you've been cool with me and everything, I'll give you your phone. You can make a couple phone calls because you're going to have a bond when you get there. >> What's that? >> A bond? >> What do you mean? >> I don't know what bond. >> So, when you get there, you get booked in and everything and then >> Oh, yeah. Like fingerprints and everything. >> Yep. And then they'll say or I don't even know. They'll they'll say if you >> How do you explain it? >> Bon's the best way to explain um >> I'm sorry. >> You're good. When you go to jail, each charge has a price as such and you have to pay 10% of that price to get released upon which if you pay that price, you have given the court date and you have to be there for >> if you don't joke at the court date, then you get a warrant for the arrest for missing the court. >> Okay. So, if I don't get that bond paid, I'm going >> to be held in jail until >> until they release you, which is >> so that makes sense. >> That work for you? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Okay. Do you have someone to come bond you out? >> Um, it depends what the amount is. It's not going to be over 300 bucks. >> Oh, yeah. I have someone that can find me out. >> Yeah. >> Okay. I'm going to give you your phone. I have no reason not to. You've been cool with me. Even though you're under arrest, I technically I'm only supposed to give you only three phone calls, but you've been honest. Cool with me. So, I'll allow you to have your phone for now. Sound good? >> Yeah, that's 60,000. >> 61. I verified 60,000 >> retail theft either, >> dude. I'm for it. And if would it be retail theft? >> No, it's >> theft over. >> Definitely theft over. If it's not retail theft, we should not depriving the merchant of a product as such. >> Yeah. >> I think this is just straight up. I mean, it's not >> theft over. >> Not aggravated theft, but is is >> sounds like it should be for that. >> What makes it aggravated? >> I would suspect the amount of money. A property crimes detective steps in to help out and the arresting officer checks in with a supervisor to sort out the charges. >> Yeah, I'm a call >> because that's not like like you were saying at first the average couple hundred bucks here and there. This is >> Yeah. >> 60. I was expecting her saying like 5 10 12 15 maybe 60. Hey, you got your phone on you? >> Give me one second. >> Really weird situation. Um Kroger is calling in a employee has been committing a theft through like the cashier system. So, she'll like ring items, print the receipt, take the money through the receipt and everything. And she's been doing it for the last 3 weeks that they can prove. Everything's on video through the last three weeks, but they said she's been here since June of last year, and they believe she's been doing it the entire time. Um, she that can be proven right now. Uh, she stole 5,000 like 500 bucks through this in the last 3 weeks. um they think it's well over 5,000, but what can we prove now is 5,000. She's been cooperative and everything and she is saying that she thinks she stole probably 60,000 from Kroger. Her words, if she had to estimate 60,000, is that a retail theft or a theft over or like an aggravated theft due to the amount? Yeah, theft over. aggravated theft or do you know what their call sign is? Do you know what their call sign is? Gotcha. Thank you. >> Sounds like CD is going to come out for this. >> So, one second. >> 13. Can you have a property crime detective go through? >> From there, things shift from a routine patrol call to a full-on investigation led by detectives. >> Hey, man. Quick, got to brief you on this. So, I got sent to the Kroger on Sterling. Uh employee employee was doing an internal theft and everything. That's what we got sent here for. We show up and we start talking to the Kroger management. And um they say within the last 3 weeks they can prove it and it's all on video and everything of an employee who was a cashier bringing out items, printing a receipt and then using the receipt to get cash and everything and then she would walk out and steal the money within the last Can you hear me? Okay. So, within the last three weeks, they can prove it and everything how she's been stealing it. And they proved like $5,500 that has been stolen in the last 3 weeks, but she's been here since last June. And she just made a mess up where they are able to see what she's been doing. They estimated it was well over 5,000 within the last year, but from what they can prove right now, it's 5,000. And um I spoke to her, she's being real cool and compliant and everything and she admitted to everything. And then I asked her how much she believes on an estimate that she stole since working here. And she said she believes that it's roughly around 60,000. >> 11 is Mr. To. >> Yeah. [Music] What's that? >> Yeah, she's in the back of my car. She's being cool and everything, so I allowed her to have her cell phone to make some phone calls. Um, >> unfortunately, >> but yeah, she's in my car now. Um, I called Melton and brief him because I wasn't sure if this was like an aggravated theft or a theft over. And then he told me that felony theft. Okay. >> A few minutes later, the detective locks in the final list of charges. >> Yeah. >> Okay. I'll I'll do that. Do you want me to forward it to you after sending her just >> like do you want to >> more? Well, no. It's all her. >> Okay. It's not aggravated or anything. Okay, cool. I appreciate it. >> All right, man. She's ultimately charged with felony theft and organized fraud. Number four, he pocketed thousands at work, then acted like nothing happened. At a Wind Dixie in Florida, an employee is caught after stealing about $2,500 over the course of a year. Once loss prevention confirms the pattern and collects enough evidence, they notify law enforcement. >> Hey there. How you doing? Good. How are you? >> Jess, I thought that Beach was fast. >> My last way faster than them. >> I know. I like that. How's it going, man? >> Good, sir. How are you? >> Pretty good. So, we have an associate um coworker. She's actually collecting a real estate now. >> Okay. >> So, we've got on video, uh over $7, I think $60 in like voids refunds, uh cancel transaction. So, like customer will buy these items and they'll cancel the transaction and steal the money out the register. um made it uh over $1,500 in product theft over the past year, $30 a week. Uh so we for our investigation, we focused in all the the cash money and everything. So total with everything uh it's going to be around $2,500 is what what he's admitting to. >> Okay. So he's admitted to all everything. >> Yeah. So right now he's literally writing the statement. >> Okay. Well, I'm going to leave him in there and let him do that thing real quick. Um >> Okay. I'll text you when he's done. that away. Would that work? >> Um, yeah, that's fine. So, exactly how how did y'all figure this out? >> Yeah. So, uh, we have a a computer program called App. So, we can do like different searches, boards, refunds, no sales. >> Okay. >> So, just running like different different searches or algorithms. We we notice these different outliers and >> Okay. >> just really deep dive into that to see, you know, avoids refunds. >> So, it's whenever customers will come to return things. Yeah, that or he would like bring customers up and then like they would leave with the product. So he would void out the whole transaction as if it never happened and then take them off. >> Okay. That way on the register. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Um silly question. I'm sure I have the answer to this. Are y'all wanting fresh charges? >> Yeah. >> Okay. All right. Um >> so we'll have everything um we'll have a USB for all the video, all the paperwork. Everything is overly good. >> When deputies approach the employee, he stays calm but shows signs of nervousness. >> Oh, I'm sorry. I should I apologize. >> Hello. >> Hi. >> Hello. >> Hi, this is Stephen. >> All right. Here's your ID back. >> All right, Stephen. I'm Deputy Rainfer. This is Deputy Truster. >> All right. I'm going to grab some information from you. >> Okay. >> How do you spell your first name? >> Stephen with a V. >> So, I do have to read Miranda to you. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, you have the excuse me, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you can be anything you say can be used against you in court. You have the right to talk to a lawyer for advice before we ask you any questions and to have them with you during questioning. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you before any questioning if you wish. If you decide to answer questions without a lawyer lawyer present, you will still have the right to stop answering at any time. You have you also have the right to stop answering at any time until you have until you talk to a lawyer. Do you understand each of these rights I have explained to you? Okay. With these rights in mind, do you wish to talk to me about the incident? I I I've never been in a situation like this. I don't know what to do. >> It's I mean it's totally up to you. So if you want to talk to me about it, you can. If you don't, you can also >> I'm just unsure what's going to happen. >> Before asking any questions, the officer reads him as Miranda rights. Ultimately, so what we're doing is this is your Miranda rights that we're reading to you. Okay? And they're your rights to help to uh prevent yourself from being asked self-inccriminating questions without having your Miranda read to you. Okay? So, reason why we read Miranda is because we may want to ask you questions that may be self-inccriminating. And so, you have the right, this is explained to you that you have the right to stop answering. You have, these are your rights to this process. So, if you would like to talk to us and allow us to ask you possible self-inccriminating questions, then you say yes. If you don't want to talk to us and you just want to have whatever you choose, whether you just don't want to talk to us or you want to talk to a lawyer, you have that right as well. And that's what Miranda right means. So, >> I ask you that's what that's why we read you Miranda just because in order to ask you possible certain questions, we have to read this because that's your right. So that's what this is want to know whether or not you want want to talk to us at all or do you just want us to just talk with them and and get what evidence from them and just go based off of whatever we get from them. That's kind of essentially what we're at with it. >> I'm just confused about what's happening. That's all. >> Well, that's what we that's what we want to talk to you about and that's why we we may want to ask you possible questions. >> Oh god. Okay. I'm sorry. I'm just >> That's okay. Yeah. So I mean we we only have limited information when we get here. All I know is that it was about $2,500 in cash and merchandise. >> Okay. Okay. So, so do you want to kind of explain to me what's been going on over the last >> Yeah. Do you want to talk to us? >> I do you want to talk to us? >> So, >> in reference to your Miranda. >> Yeah. And you said that I can stop at any point >> at any point. >> Okay. Yeah, I do want to talk to you cuz I don't want to hide anything. >> Okay. All right. >> I just I just want to be straight forward and I just I just want to be fair. I just want to correct my mistake. >> Okay. Yes. >> Okay. So, explain to me it's been about a year that this has been going on. >> I Yeah, I got my home life is really tough and halfway through I don't know the exact time, but I stopped getting paid as much as I did. And then >> once informed of his rights, he decides to talk and admits to everything. >> Things are really tough right now for a lot of people. So, I I I get it, but >> you know, >> I I I didn't think that it would added up that much, and I just wanted to >> help. >> So, was it cash? Was it merchandise? >> It was It was food. >> Okay. Okay. And was it every week, every day, whenever you came into work? Once a week. >> Okay. What kind of food was it? >> It was like potatoes and raisins and stuff like that, like kucha and onions, stuff like that. It's >> like whatever I would like normally eat. >> Okay. So, just food to kind of take home and Okay. >> Okay. And when did you start doing this? >> That was sometime last year. >> Last year. >> I Yeah, sometime 2023. Um, but I I stopped doing that at a certain point this year. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Okay. And then so you guys found out about it when >> we saw the cash shortages. >> Okay. where where the cash was being taken started in January. >> Okay. So, how much cash did you steal? >> Uh they well not they um I didn't know but it was like so 100 more. No the exact amount that you said. I'm sorry. >> How much do you think it was? >> I had to be at least $800 $900 what they said. So >> how were you taking it? Like just a couple bills here and there? Were you taking like hundreds? I avoided the transactions on the thing. Whatever cash the person had, I I took that. >> Okay. >> And yeah, and and sorry, refunds >> too. Yeah. I just want to give it back. >> Okay. >> Is that even possible to just give it back? >> So >> that's not that's not up to us. Like >> I know I'm just asking. I just just want to give it all back. >> All right. >> I just want to make amends really badly. I didn't want to do this. >> I didn't want to do this. >> Yeah. >> I really didn't. He says he didn't expect the theft to snowball like it did and insists he just wants to return everything >> is wanting to press charges. >> Yeah, sure. >> Okay. >> Okay. And you guys have an itemized receipt of everything? >> Okay. >> Is there any way I can do do anything to to >> by day and by transaction? No. >> And then the actual transactions. >> Okay. >> For each I mean I made notes on certain ones. I wouldn't I wouldn't >> the company but that was just for the times and then you the the product and stuff >> ultimately reason why we talk to you is because so when we when we conduct an investigation and I'm just being real with you we ask everybody is anytime I talk to anybody anytime I conduct an investigation we have three sides to every story right we have the complainant side the victim's side we have evidence and then we have the other person's side right And so if all I get is just the victim or complainant side and the evidence, then when I formulate the case and do it like putting a puzzle together, if that's all I get of one side, then that's the only way we have to present it. And so we always ask a possible suspect or a suspect of anything to get their side because >> number one, it tells me two or a couple different things. Are did you was this maliciousness? Was this what was going on? It kind of gives you a chance to tell me what's going on to kind of better understand and to present that to the situation in the in the case. Does that make sense? It's not like we're sitting here trying to just pry anything out of you. Again, we have >> we get their statements, we get the evidence, the evidence speaks volumes. So, here's if we get one side of it, right? And all we get is just the evidence and what they say and it looks malicious, that may not be what it is, which is why we talk to you because if you tell me that all you're doing is is getting if you're having a problem, we docu we we take your side and document it. Now again, they have their policies they have to follow. We have our policies we have to follow. >> Officers explained that despite his honesty, the amount stolen meets the threshold for felony grand theft. >> That they're trying to do anything personal for you. Just that's what they have to do, just like we do. I I don't think that you're a bad person. I think you made a mistake. Unfortunately, we have to follow the rules just like they have to follow the rules. And that's so we're not out here trying to just peg you and and and paint this up. I would much rather get your side of the story so that when we write this up, we say this is what he told us. It may be that way. If not, we have to just assume based on the evidence and based on these things. You know what I mean? >> Or anything like that or do I know >> what's that? >> Can I know what they're like the charges and stuff like that or >> So, it's going to be grand theft cuz it's over $750. So, >> yeah. >> Is there What do I do? Like, do I can I how do I like make that better, though? So, and we can we can talk we can talk to you about that here in just a little bit about it, but >> Okay. Because I definitely want to make it better. I don't want to to this. I want to fix it. >> And I'm sure the store appreciates that and we can appreciate that, too. But again, we have to do what what what our policy >> tell me what what that means cuz I I don't know a lot. >> So, ultimately what'll happen today is is if they want to pursue charges, we'll have to review all the evidence and everything. And if there's enough sufficient evidence to prove it, then you will wind up being arrested today for grand theft. That's not the end of the world. Okay? It's just a It's just a property crime, okay? It's not the end of the world. It's not like you beat somebody up. It's not like you murdered somebody. More than likely, what'll happen is is you'll go to you'll go see a judge, okay? And they'll they'll issue a bond and then you can get make the bond and then be released and then you'll go to court and they'll resolve all of this stuff from that point. It's not the end of the world, okay? >> One officer walks him through what comes next, reassuring him that it's not the end of the world. It's not like you murder somebody. You're not going to be going to prison for 20, 30 years, 40 years or life. It's not the worst crime. Yes, it is a crime and it's considered grand theft because of the amount. It's not the end of the world for you. Okay? You're not Don't >> don't sit here and like freak out on me. It's not the end of the world. I'm just saying you're want to know what's going and and I'll be honest with you. Like I said, you're going to have to go. We'll pro you're going to have to take a ride with us today and you're going to have to go talk to a judge, okay? >> And then he will talk to you and get he'll take all the stuff that we have. you'll talk to your get your side of it and then you'll get you'll more than likely get a bond and be released at that point once you make bond. Okay. >> Okay. Um All right. Okay. >> Said it's not the end of the world. Like I said, we're not we're not out here, you know, we're not trying to treat you like you're some hardened criminal. I think you made a mistake. I think you know you made a mistake. You're admitting that you made a mistake. >> It's not the end of the world. Okay? I mean, I deal with these all the time. At least you're being >> awesome and respon, you know, respectful to everybody involved. You're catching what's going on. Most of the time I get people and they want to spit in their face and do all that stuff. you're being respectful with it. We're going to treat you the same respect with it. But >> that's why we want to ask you and just find out what's going on because again, I don't want to have to just make assumptions with it. I want I don't want to just read the evidence and I don't want to just take their sides on. I want to get to your side and then we'll go from there. Okay. >> Yeah. >> And so >> I'm so sorry. I Thank you. I get told about police all the time. It's not true. >> Yeah. No, we're Listen, we're we're normal people just like you. I Listen, we make mistakes. We're we're we're humans just like you are. It's not the end of the world. All right. I promise you. you have dealt with a lot worse than what what you got here. Okay, it's not the end of the world. Do y'all have um do you all have video or anything like that, too? Perfect. Even better. >> The employee takes it in stride and stays cooperative the entire time. >> Sure. >> Go ahead. >> No, I'm >> No, I just if I just, you know, am honest, I feel like that's better. >> Oh, yeah. I mean, and and and that's not for us. That's not for them. All right. I'm going to be hon I've done this for a long time. I I do this a whole bunch. This is for you. You're not going to get past it until you're honest with yourself. That's that's the reality of it. Whether what it's not for them, not for me. Um you need to fill this part out here. Uh >> and you said as much in our conversation. You know, you said you felt a lot better after you started talking. >> Yeah. And you're going to I got a feeling you've been looking over your shoulder this entire time, the past year. >> I'm sure. And I'm sure when when the video's watched, we can see that you're And like I said, 98% of the people I deal with are good people and they just make a mistake. All right. The other the the next 1% just they're to put all my list and they just be blatant with I guess and doing stuff because they don't they don't know any better and they just whatever. Then that last 1% are just evil people and they just want to screw the world over and burn it down and all that stuff. I don't believe you're that way. I do believe you're 98%. I deal with that. It happens. You the economy is tough. your heart, what all that stuff. You just made a mistake. >> Hopefully, you learn from the mistake. You'll make them again. You'll roll on. This will roll through. You'll be all right. Okay. >> When you said, "I'm looking over my shoulder." God, it's the most >> Again, I'm assuming I can tell you're nervous right now with it. You're >> But it's not the end of the world. All right. >> Sergeant's number. >> Huh? I think that's their or what's it say? >> Yeah. >> Um I I don't know. I don't know how much you guys know, but I'm just going to ask cuz do I have to ask somebody else in my life or something? Like do I have to call someone? I don't know. >> What'll happen is So ultimately there's a number right there to like pay. >> I got you. So ultimately what'll happen is once you go to once you go today now again I don't you may have a preset bond. I don't believe so. I think since it's a felony you're going to have to go to first appearance in the morning. Okay. >> Okay. >> The officer answers all his questions making sure he understands the process ahead following the arrest. You'll go tonight. You'll get you'll you'll go in. They'll they'll book you. They'll excuse me. They'll allow you to get numbers off of your phone. If you have a phone on you, whatever. They'll allow you to get all that off. You can make phone call. You can call what I don't know how many they'll let you call, but they may let you make one or two, three phone calls. I don't know. >> Let them know what's going on. If you have to go to first appearance, they'll issue a bond in the morning. And then at that point, if you have the money on you, you can bond out there. If you need to call a bondsman, you can call a bondsman. If you need to call family, you can call family. They'll arrange all that with you. That's all I know on that cuz I don't deal on the jail side, but just from my experience with it, that's the process that you have. If you have a preset bond, then you'll you can bond out, meaning like for certain crimes, they have a preset already amount for a preset. If that's the case, you'll get you can issue the bond today and you can get out. Okay. >> Okay. >> Um, >> so just another question. You're going to take me to a place, but is it to the judge? I just didn't. >> So, we're going to take you to the jail. >> So, they'll do the they'll have to do the process with you. They'll fingerprint. Have you ever been I've taken you have never been arrested before. Okay. So, they're going to go through, they're going to fingerprint you. They're going to take your picture. So, just smile pretty for it if you want or whatever. Just um they're going to take your picture. You'll go in, you'll get that process. Like I said, if you have a preset bond, then you'll get um you'll get that issue to you. If not, you'll have to hang out there tonight until you go to first appearance in the morning. I will tell you that you will be in a cell by yourself. You're not going to go in like general population. Not going to be around a whole bunch of hard criminals. You're going to be by yourself in a cell for the night. You can just chill out and then in the morning you go see a judge. >> Okay. Got it. Yes. >> I mean, normally I don't answer all these, but you're being cool with us. You're talking with us. >> I just I just want >> I'd rather talk to you and not have you and make and even and do something where we got to use force and all that stuff. I'd rather just talk with you and let's get through get through it. Okay. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, I want to cooperate. That doesn't make any sense. >> No, I said Me either. That's why I'd rather just talk with you. That's it. Before proceeding, the officer recaps the entire incident with the employee, walking through what happened step by step. >> Tap it real quick for you. Okay. So, this happened over It started over a year ago. Yeah. First, you were just taking what? >> First, you were just taking food and then from there it transitioned into doing the refund and the cash and and exchanging that stuff like that. >> Okay. >> Um, >> should I ask for more? I don't know how this works. >> Again, I can't give you that advice. It's up to you. whatever you want to do. Like I said, I I mean, you know, in cases like this, we have a lot of evidence and stuff like that. We just ask I ask you questions and if you want to answer them, you can. I just I just want to hear your side of it. That's that's ultimately I I I'll be honest with you with everything they have. I don't even have to talk to you right now. I'm just trying to give you that opportunity to talk with me because then again, we can document your side of it. That that's and to be all honest with you. Okay. >> Sometimes people don't want to talk and I said, I don't have to. >> It doesn't make any sense. I'd rather be honest. >> Okay. Yeah. or the beast. >> Um, what did you do? How did you get the food out of here? >> I put it in like a bag or I put it in my pocket. >> Okay, >> that's my >> How about the money? How did What did you do with that? >> I put that in a bag. You >> just put that in a bag in a pocket, too. >> Same thing. >> Okay, I got you. >> Well, I appreciate you. Thank you for talking with us. >> Um, did y'all happen to fill like an affidavit or anything? Did y'all have I don't know. Do y'all have one on file with us already? >> Okay. Can we get one of y'all to just It doesn't have to be super detailed. Um, one of y'all just to kind of give us a brief so you've got like >> um his is Yeah, whoever's is fine. Either yours or his. Whoever wants to do that, we send driver license if you're doing it. We don't have to do >> We already have his. Yeah, we can just have him do it. Um, >> I've already got your ID. So, >> if you just want, it can just be whichever way. I don't care. Whoever, >> she's going to be the one. She She basically did the case. Put it >> That's fine. Just get her have her put her ID and stuff in there. You don't have to take it now. You can get that company. >> Uhhuh. >> It's a zero tolerance. >> Okay. Yeah. I just wanted to >> Yeah. >> Although the crime is serious, officers recommend he seek help through the employee assistance program. >> Unfortunately, you know, due to those actions, we're not going to be able to continue. >> That's That's fine. I just just needed to know. >> Yeah. Um just a question about like kind of just done in general or >> today's going to be your essentially >> and uh you can do it over over here >> you'll be paid until >> um and then um >> I'm sorry do you mean like this >> do it over the radio and then just tell them to go >> the last numbers of it so you can just write down this finishes office is when they'll essentially pay you for your last time here. >> Got it. Okay. So like whenever I leave here and read the last unfortunately like with my job this is the the hardest part is having these tough conversations with people and this is you know the the whole investigation thing is is amazing but for me it's this is the toughest part because >> because you're talking to people >> exactly and you could be at that point in your life okay well you've never been in trouble before right so you >> this first time ever getting >> so imagine you're in just the center here of life. >> Yeah. >> It can go one way or the other. >> Mhm. >> And so in in hopes for me every time I have conversations with people I hope they >> it's an eye openener. Unfortunately we have to go through this process of things, right? >> Yeah. >> So um you know I hope it's a learning experience at the end of like I don't want to go down this path because you you know you're more than likely going to be taken into jail and you're going to see a different aspect of life. >> Sure. >> Right. So, I'm I'm hoping that's going to, you know, be an eye opener for you. And, you know, do we uh Sabrina, do we offer EAP for afterwards? So, >> I can write that number down for you. >> Yeah. So, it's employee assistance. >> Get it for 30 days. >> So, thank you. >> 30 days after today. >> Um there's going to be services that that you you're going to be available to. I don't Sabrina would know cuz she's >> so they essentially they will offer you um if you want to have somebody to talk to. >> Mhm. >> It's basically free therapy. >> Given the planned nature and duration of the scheme, the store is also weighing the possibility of additional charges. >> With the license therapist, it is not through Windixie. It is something that Windixie pays for, but it doesn't they don't call us up and go, "Hey, >> Stephen called in." It's completely separate from us. >> Yeah. >> But it's a great resource. I've personally used it and when I was a store manager, I recommended it to my employees all the time. Okay. It's a really really greatource. >> Yeah, I definitely do that because I don't have anyone to talk to. >> I'll defin take full advantage of that. >> Okay. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> So, I'm hoping that this is, you know, this is something you can learn from. >> Thank you. >> So, we're actually going to do a little change up. So, you're not going to wind up going to jail today because I was talking with my supervisor and what we're looking at is not just grand theft or not not the shoplifting and grand theft. We're looking at possible more serious fraud charges. >> So, but we're going to have to I'm going to contact give the state attorney to make sure we're getting those due to the amount of time that's gone by. >> We have we have different charges that we're going to wind up going with. >> Okay. But it's it's so we're going to What was the amount for the uh for the shoplift thing for the actual merchandise? >> It was right at 2,000 right around >> uh so it's $30 a week 1506. >> You will have the felony grand theft charges. Okay. So what we're going to do we're going to send that up to the state attorney's office. Okay. >> But the cash money we're going to have to look at because we're looking at at scheme to defraud charges. meaning so but that's meaning you were trying to defraud people of their funds and the store of their funds and stuff like that. So not people but the store of the funds. >> So that we're going to go that route because that's going to wind up being bigger more charges. Okay. It's still not the end of the world but due to the circumstances of it. >> We're going to go that route with it. Does that make sense for y'all? We're still setting up charges. >> Although he avoids jail that day, the charges move forward. >> But you will be there will be charges and stuff going forward. So, with that being said, what'll happen is we're going to forward the charges to the state attorney's office, they're going to review the case and they will probably be in contact with you. >> Okay? >> So, if you get a if you get calls from an unknown number, like a 904 number or whatever, and they leave you a voicemail at the state attorney's office, you better be reaching back out to them and stuff. Now, that may allow you to whatever attorney, whatnot, but if you don't speak to somebody, they're more than likely going to issue a warrant for your arrest. >> Okay. So, okay. So, when they call me, I need to respond to what I'm saying. No warrant for arrest. No, no communication is never a good thing because we will just automatically the state will automatically assume that full cool. We're just going to issue warrants on all this and boom, that's but we're going to due to the nature of >> the since it was delayed back on that, we're not going to do the physical arrest on that today. We're going to send up charges on of it. But we're looking >> delayed thing that happens when they call me and then I go to court then. >> Yes. So essentially they will discuss all that after all that once they get all that started. But that's what's going to wind up happening. I'm assuming you guys are wanting to trespass him from here. >> I already discussed that. >> Okay, perfect. I'm trying to get caught up playing three >> ring around the Rosie over here. So, I I apologize on that one. So, and you've discussed that with him. What's going to go on? Okay. >> Yeah, she's talking. >> Um, you have a way to get a ride then, correct? >> Uh, yeah. >> The phone you can call somebody come get you once we walk out and we'll escort you out of the building and everything and then we'll just have a conversation with them. But, I go into a little bit more detail with you guys on that. So, you're not going to wind up going to jail jail today, but you are going to have multiple charges filed up against you for all this. Okay? Again, it's not the end of the world. You didn't Nothing you said made any of that different. That's us just making sure that we charge appropriately and making sure we're covering everything. >> Before being escorted out of the store, he's officially trespassed and told that his employment is terminated. >> Get a call from the state attorney's office or whatever that process is. Make sure you call them back or whatever. Most people don't answer unknown numbers, but if they have a v voicemail, which they more than likely will, make sure you speak with them. Okay. Because that's going to be the difference in whether how that plays out, whether they just start issuing warrants and whatever else. And >> Right. So, we still Okay, I got you. >> Make sense? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Awesome. I'm going to escort him out then and then I'll be okay. >> If y'all don't y'all need anything else and then I will come back in real quick and have y'all real quick. >> Okay. This should bring us. >> Though he's not arrested on the spot, the case is forwarded to the state attorney's office. He later receives a sentence of 2 years probation. Number three, Publix's employee slipped this into their bag. Now they're in trouble. A Publix employee is caught trying to leave with a cart full of unpaid items, including toilet paper and other products. A cashier notices he didn't go through a register and alerts management who quickly decides to press charges. >> I'm um he went out the e store with a shopping cart full. >> All this >> all of this. >> Okay. >> And uh he claims he paid for it, but we know he didn't go through no registers. She didn't go through the East register with this um cuz she's the cashier who called us. And um so when we approached him, we just asked for the product. >> We're prosecuting, right? >> Yes. >> All right. Yeah. He's going to be a 15. They're prosecuting. Good amount of stuff. >> I'll give you a receipt right now. >> It's a good amount of stuff. [Applause] >> Copy. >> Plus the one item that he took. This is 193. And his item is at least $20. So it's over $200 worth of stuff. >> Gotcha. >> 15 to 14. Does he have any property with him? Should be one or two items. >> He should have. >> It's like this, but it's red. >> Toilet paper. >> Yeah, toilet paper. >> Yeah, that's it. We got a whole shopping cart full of other items he tried to take. You'll be doing a quick show. Amber, you want to ride with me real quick? >> Here we go again. >> 8:14 to 15. Look like it's an employee. >> Sir, is there a reason why you're here? How can we help you? I just walked from over here. >> Listen, we're dealing with something right now. >> Oh, >> so I can't answer your questions. 500 Bion Boulevard. If you have questions about that, okay, that's Banyan. Just go turn right. >> Officers arrive on the scene and confront the suspect just outside the store. >> Still got We don't We don't do the We don't We don't do the parking. >> I just gave you the solution, sir. I gave you a solution to the problem. >> 500. What? 500 Bion. Bangan, take a right. >> Make a right. >> Correct. >> All right. Yeah. He's going to be a 15 to prosecute this. Good amount of stuff here. >> Want to take it? >> You want to take it? >> You can take it. >> That way you guys get a hala. Yeah. Well, I guess I guess might as well take your hand like this. >> 15. Does he have any property with him? Should be one or two items. >> Toilet paper. And >> is this yours? >> Yes, sir. >> That's my That's my purse. >> Yeah, that's it. We got a whole shopping cart full of other items he tried to take. So, >> careful. be doing a quick show up. >> I'm going to do a show up. >> All right. He did. >> Yeah. >> I thought it was somebody else. >> I thought he might have. >> You want gloves or no? You just going to do a roll? >> Yeah. >> Nine months later. So happy my body cam is at its fine. >> I got you. I got you. >> Smile. >> I don't know. >> As of right now, they No, I got you. As of right now, they did say that they want to prosecute. So, I'm going to take this knife off of you. >> 1035. Where's the >> I believe CLA s I have the manager on board. We're heading that way. After confirming the theft happened beyond the final point of sale, they proceed with the arrest. >> What? This is my boss. >> You work? I don't know. But why wouldn't you? I ain't I ain't did. >> I guess you took some items, man. >> So, I'm getting arrested >> right now. Yes, >> right now. Show me uh 97 clinic. >> I can't believe it, bro. >> Why? >> Huh? >> Why can't you believe it? >> Because I ain't do. They got They got everything. Everything. >> Everything should work out, right? >> Yeah, but they >> You got your receipt for that? >> No, they got they got everything. >> Got you. Then everything should work out. >> But they say they want to prosecute >> the store. Not cuz it's in the parking lot. No, not that. >> Yeah, you said the store, right? >> Huh? >> Took that basket out the store. >> Yeah, it was it was in the front of the store. >> Yeah. Once you leave the store, that's it. It's not not because it's still in the parking lot. It's not stolen. It's stolen. Once you leave the store like you go through the store, it's stolen. 3131. You about to go 97 on the show. Oh man. Hey, do me a favor. Face this way. So they still want to prosecute. >> That's what they saying. Okay. So they just trespass me. >> They're going to do that, too. >> Well, why I got to get arrested? >> Because of the choices you made. >> He's an employee. >> He's an employee. Yeah. >> I guess stealing stealing from the employer. I I got to figure out what uh I'm curious to know where the shopping cart is at, but it seems like he loaded some things out, went past all points of sale, and probably like probably dropped it, but he was he was caught with that. So, >> yeah. What else do you have? >> Right now, it's just that um the >> Fortunately, the employee remains cooperative throughout and doesn't resist. >> Shman, you got a brown bag. >> Yeah. >> Can't make this stuff up, right? time drama. >> Yeah, if they just get that morning detail and then and then I think he left work early. >> You make me prime minister. >> Oh, there you go. What do you guys need? >> Uh that that brown bag and >> 239. I'll be getting a statement here at >> I'll put I'll put mine on. Okay. >> Listen, we appreciate you cooperating with us. Okay. All we do is we try to try to figure this thing out. He he usually he's he usually good. Like he just works and stuff like that. Like I know I see him all the time. I work hard. >> All right, let's do this again. >> So you put your hands like this. >> Yeah. You're not going to be able to take that ring or that jewel with you. >> I got you. >> All right. So listen, you come come back here with me. So you're going in my car. Just give me a quick second. Take those rubber bands out. That's crazy. Have a seat. So, let me figure out what's going on and we'll go from there. Okay. Did he have ID on him? >> While processing the arrest, officers discover the man also has an outstanding warrant in Georgia. >> 95. >> Yes, sir. I have open warrant in Georgia, but they don't escape. >> Okay. >> So, I'm good. >> I'm all right. I don't have no warrants. You got you got the warrant. Not not here in West. >> Okay. Like you said, out of Georgia. All right. >> What part of Georgia you from? >> I'm from America's Georgia. >> Who? America. >> America's Georgia something. >> Okay. >> What's the What's the warrant for? >> Uh I think they for a failure to appear like it was for um >> to appear. What was the original charge? >> I think aggravated assault. >> It was a misdemeanor though. It was it was something petty. Really? My girlfriend got me locked up. >> You know what I'm saying? >> Like a message. >> Okay. K E Y O N >> I got K A S. >> No, tell her I mean I I gave him I spelled it wrong. >> He lied to you, >> huh? >> He lied to you. >> You lied to me. >> Yeah. >> That one doesn't go down. You got open door. That window doesn't go down. >> You heard me? I I did. I lied. I cuz I knew I had I had the Georgia warrant. >> You know that's another charge, right? And I feel mad disrespected cuz I came at you correct, bro. >> I I understand. I'm sorry. I just had that Georgia warrant. I didn't know if y'all was going to lock me up. Look, look, you know me cuz you you've been there. You work around me. I'm sorry, but but I had that warrant over. You know what I'm saying? >> I I apologize. Copy. [Applause] >> Uh, the last one is a >> social book. >> Can you tell me what I'm being charged with? >> Uh, as of right now, it's is theft something. I don't know. Pay theft. >> I've been out here with you though, so I I don't know exactly what what it is you took. How much you how much of a dollar amount you took? >> Police also raised concerns about possible substance use, asking about pills found in his apron and whether he's currently taking anything. Bro, how long you been having issues? For a while. What you doing? So that that so what you doing? >> You're not getting charged with that. So what you doing? >> Is there any in on your stuff? >> On my stuff >> in on you? >> No. >> Cuz I don't want nobody getting hurt. We want to go home just like you want to go home. No. >> So Flocka Flocker got you right now. How long? Been a minute, huh? All right. >> What? What are them blue and whites? >> What blue and white? >> The pills that you had on you. You got some blue and white pills on you. >> Where? >> Inside your apron. >> Some blue and white pills. I don't remember having no >> kill when I'm in char. >> So right now it's death as far as I know. I don't know all the detail and it might be that's all I got for right now. You going to take your shoes off and we're going to step inside the cell. Okay. >> Although they choose not to press charges over the pills, officers stay alert while processing him. We're going to here. All right. >> You going to hear? >> Yeah. Yeah. Take the C. Go inside. >> You got to get the thing out the car. >> Yeah, I got to grab >> Today's date is Thursday, February 8th, 2024. It's approximately 9:43 a.m. I am currently at 600 Banan Boulevard in the West Palm Beach Holding cell number 1044. This is in reference to case number 24-2359. This is in regards to a theft that occurred at Publix, 375 South Rosemary Avenue. I'm currently present with. Say your first and last name for me, sir. You raise your right hand for me. The statement you're about to give is the truth, the whole truth. So, help you God. >> Yes, sir. >> All right. Put your hands down. Before I ask you any questions, I'm going to read you your rights from a West Palm Beach Miranda card. All right. Number one, you have the right to remain silent and I answer any of my questions. Do you understand? Yes, sir. >> You have the right to the presence of a lawyer before you make any statements during questioning. Do you understand? >> All right. Make sure you speak loud so I can hear you. Yes. >> If you cannot afford a lawyer, you're entitled to the presence of a courtappointed lawyer before you make any statement. Do you understand? >> Yes. >> Any statement you make must be freely and voluntarily. Do you understand? >> Yes, I do. >> Anything you say can and will be used against you in the court of law. Do you understand that? >> Yes, I do. >> If at any time during this interview you wish to not answer any of my questions, you got the right to remain silent. Do you understand? >> All right. I cannot make any threats or promises to make you give me a statement. Do you understand that? All right. Before you answer any questions, all you're going to do is say, "Officer Jones, read me my rights from this card." All right. >> After reading him his rights, one of the officers asks for his side to the story about the theft. >> Rights from this card. All right. The top line right here, boss man, sign your name. >> Thank you. All right, Mr. Davis, can you tell me what happened to them? >> Do you wish to provide a statement in regards to whatever happened at the Publix? >> You did something stupid. >> You did something stupid. Are you able to tell me what you did? >> Trying to leave with their stuff. >> You tried to leave with her stuff. All right. You have a job right now? like that. >> Huh? Okay. Um, was the stuff for you or for someone else? >> It was for you. >> It was for you. Okay. How did you come in contact with this public shirt? Where did you get it from? >> Found it. >> You found it. When When and where did you find the public shirt? >> Found it in a trash pile. >> You found it on a trash pile? >> What day was that? Do you recall? A while back. >> A while back. All right. Okay. Is there anything else that you want to add that I may have forgotten to ask you? >> Eventually, he's officially charged with theft. Number two, the employee who quietly scammed $66,000 thinking she'd get away with it. At a BJ's wholesale club, a cashier is caught in a monthslong coupon fraud scheme that drains over $66,000 from the company. Here's what happens next. >> 553 K3. >> Hello. >> Hi. How are you? >> So, I have a question for you. So, we tried to get a detective here today, but based on an officer. So, we have a $66,000. >> It has to go through an officer. I have to take the initial report, and if a sergeant looks at the case and feels it needs to go to a detective, then um >> it'll be a sign. >> So, I have a question for you. We we have all the data, >> but we're going to interview the team member tomorrow because we need her to admit collusion because she's working with a specific member >> that we want to file the charges for, but we need to talk to the team member first. >> She's tomorrow, but I want to coordinate it where >> Yeah. The only thing I've had a case like this where they tried to coordinate it with me specifically and we got so busy that day that we had like a shooting over here that there was no way I can be there and they interviewed that person without me. So >> I I don't know how you guys it's just hard to say yes I can be here at a certain time or no I can't. That's the only that's the only thing I have with you know the only issue I have with that. >> But here's my question. >> The person's not here now. >> No. Well, that's why we wanted to do like we have everything. >> Um although the $66,000 is an accumulation since November, we only have archive video starting March 3rd. But my question, it's it's a complete felony already. Like that surpassed that even what we have on video versus the total case file. The total case is like 60. The officer coordinates with the loss prevention staff and goes through the process of pressing charges and how they'll go about confronting the cashier during her next shift. >> Um but we can prove like probably half of that because we only have archive till March. >> Yeah. I mean um well you know I have to obviously look at the video and if you know everything adds up and it goes to the state attorney and they feel like this is a solid enough case you know go through. >> You guys would arrest if she admits already tomorrow anyway. Well, the the thing is like I have to be able to read her her Miranda words. I just can't. >> No, no, I get that all. But I'm just saying we have all the paper like this is a significant >> I might not I'm going to tell you I might not arrest it might not even be me, but I might not arrest that person right away and I might file charges attorney >> really for that much. [Music] >> Well, like I said, I have to take the initial report and if this >> if we can't prove beyond a reasonable doubt that it was this person, a detective probably has to take a a deeper dive into it cuz I can only do so much. So, what do you recommend? Because I am looking for an arrest tomorrow. I mean, I >> That's not really That's not up to you. >> No, but >> I mean, yeah, you you know, BJ's is the the victim and you guys want to press charges and um I have to look at the video. I have to look at, you know, all the evidence and write the initial report and the sergeant has to look at it >> and then we go from there. >> Okay. Would you recommend like look at the information now or call you guys tomorrow when cuz I have to >> just the only thing is like you see how long it took me to get it kind of took me a while to get here today. Um number one reason raising canes is is insane over there. Um so it took me 20 minutes just to get in here. Um the only thing about waiting tomorrow is if she's here and we can't get here. >> Wow. >> That's that's the only thing I worry about cuz it happened to me with Walmart. he was there and they they didn't read him his Miranda rights, you know, and he wrote some sort of like weird letter um that was very vague. So, I don't know what, you know, they went to the state attorney. I just don't know what's going to happen with it because I wasn't there. >> During the conversation, staff assure the officer that they have all the information and proof they need to move forward with the arrest. >> So, you have to be a part of the interview. >> I mean, I have to be able to read her her Miranda rights. Yeah. And and hear her have her confess it to me on body count. Oh, okay. So, here's the thing. She's here at 9:00. >> I I I'm anticipating you guys aren't as crazy in the morning. >> I I don't know. I can't make a promise. Like, I can do the initial report >> and then, you know, I can we can try to be here tomorrow for the interview or you It It's really It's up to you. It's whatever you guys want to do or feel comfortable with. >> I mean, well, I'll have everything lined up for you. >> Yeah. I would need copies. I need That's We have all We have all of it. We have all the receipts. We have all the videos. We have what we have. And I can break it down for you when it started, >> what the amount we have to do. So, let me just show you. >> All the receipts have similar readings. Right. So, >> there is a specific number that's been coming here and going to a specific cashier. >> He goes particularly to selfch checkout >> and she's discounting all his purchases. So, keep in mind >> this is a $1,200 sale >> and the member is paying for >> that amount. >> Mhm. >> So, all these coupons, you see these overrides? >> Mhm. >> They're overridden by that specific cashier and he only goes to her. >> She's I We've looked at his membership, we looked at his sales, >> all of these are manually entered. >> So, she's discounting that. So, she doesn't need a manager to take that kind of amount of money. >> She doesn't because she's a selfch checkckout attendant and those cards to override them at selfch checkckout she has access to. >> I guess BJ should look at that policy. >> Yeah. Okay. So, how do we So, how do you know it's that specific cashier at that at that specific moment? >> We we pulled all the videos for all these. According to them, the scam involves a specific club member who repeatedly checks out with carts full of merchandise, always going to the same cashier. >> And then who's the member? Do you have their information? >> Yes. >> Yeah. This probably honestly would probably have to go to a detective. So, um it's just the amount of money. But even if she when she if you're there, if you if you're there and or somebody an officer is there and she admits to it, then at that point, can you still make an arrest if you do them? >> As long as everything I mean, yeah, probably. >> Yeah. So, again, the the the >> But I can't promise you someone can be here when you want us to be here. >> No, I I get that. >> So, this is the most recent one, which is yesterday. >> Who am I looking at? That's the cashier. >> Which lady? >> This one. >> And that's the member of the guy in the blue. >> Correct. >> Why is your thing all of a sudden? >> Full screen. >> Just Just leave it there. Is it playing? Why is it pixelating all of a sudden? Yeah, I need >> holding for membership >> zero >> I don't know why your stuff's pixelated. So that's her. This is the member. >> So that's the one and only member that she does for correct. >> And you guys have looked through all the transactions. >> The cashier using her override credentials enters fake coupon values based solely on the amounts the member tells her without verifying any actual coupons or matching items. >> There's a pattern. It's him and her since November. and she does the exact same thing cuz all the receipts show the same thing. >> And at the end of the night, does someone have to tally up the coupons or anything like that? >> So, we no longer actually tally up the coupons. They just go automatically into a bag. It doesn't get >> it doesn't get um >> so it doesn't have to match against >> goes back to white Mercedes convertible out of Palm Beach. >> We don't do a physical validation. >> And does she have a signin number to a register? >> Correct. then that's her number five. >> So in certain cases, like for this example, she's on a register, >> right? >> But in some cases, majority of the time, it's at selfch checkout, which has a different >> What day is this? >> Yesterday. >> This is just the most recent one. >> And then where's yesterday's paper? >> So does she actually have a paper coupon? Like does he hand her paper coupons or how >> you you'll see. So what he does, he hands her coupons on the corner there. Mhm. >> She doesn't even look at them >> and she just keys it in. You'll see her key in which you'll see when when you see her key it in. >> This is what you're seeing >> is all this amount. >> She just can put any amount >> pretty much. And she's >> crazy that the >> And she's overriding it herself cuz you see this manager override. >> Mhm. >> She's a manager. >> No. >> Does every employee have access to do that manager override? any cashier, but their ID is tied to themselves only. >> Calling for membership. >> So, every single time, whether it's selfch checkout or at a register, that's exactly what you see. It's the exact same video that you you see. It's just in different spots. She's just keying it in. So, like right now, right, you see how he's handing her coupons. Look at her typing it in. >> Right? When you see her typing in and scan, the scan is the override. So, she's just keying in coupons for the guy. >> What is she scanning though? Oh, like >> her card to do the override. >> The scheme runs smoothly until finance teams at corporate notice a strange trend. One location is processing an unusually high number of type B coupons, a category not typically tracked closely. >> She just continuously key key key scan. Each time she's keying and scanning, she's overriding and manually entering in a coupon. He puts a pile of coupons there, but she doesn't even look at them. >> How come this wasn't caught any sooner? >> So, we've determined an issue with our exception based reporting. >> It's a technical thing where it's how what tender type she used. >> Instead of it being vendor coupon, she used a type B. >> And it's like a tend it's like just a a slight adjustment on the accession based reporting that it didn't catch it. >> Like a some sort of glitch. It it wasn't a glitch. It's how we created >> the report where >> we just needed to make one minor adjustment to put it as a like coupon as a tender. >> We just put coupon usage but we didn't put it as a tender and how she process it is as a tender. So that's why >> how was this caught? >> So what finance does because we send >> all this data that goes to the POS gets validated by finance at the corporate office. So, type B coupons are coupons that are from BJ's Wholesale Club. So, >> those little books, >> no, it's a it's a special type. It's not the ones in the books. >> So, um what those are is um so Finance reconciles these because these come from DJs. It's a separate type of coupon. They're not in the book. >> They when they're like, "Wait a minute. How can Boy and Beach have like a thousand of these $1,000 in a week, >> more than a thousand worth of these type of coupons? >> And we send them the coupons so they reconcile it. >> The same member is seen checking out with the same cashier multiple times per day and the override activity doesn't match any legitimate transactions. >> They looked at that. They saw a pattern every single week. This is the only club that has a significant amount of type B coupons. is not removing any money out of the registers. >> Yep. >> But it's him every hug and her. >> Do you guys have another chair? I need to sit down. I need to write your information. >> The next day, the employee is confronted and read her rights. >> Hello. >> Is there a room that >> um alone? >> Yeah. Yeah, you guys. >> This is the coupon from the pouch from today. >> Yeah, you guys need >> I'll just No, I didn't think cuz they were talking. Detective Lighter Point Police Department. How are you? >> My partner Rivera. >> So before we get started, I'm just going to read you your Miranda. Okay. I'm required to warn you before you make any statement that you have the following constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent, not to answer any questions. Any statements you make must be freely and voluntarily given. You have the right to the presence and representation of lawyer of your choice before making any statements and during any question. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you're entitled to the presence and representation of courting lawyer before you make any statement and during the question. If at any time during this interview you do not wish to answer any questions, you're privileged to remain silent. You can make no threats or promises to induce you to make a statement. This must be of your own free will. Any statement can and will be used against you in a court of law. Understand those. Any questions over any of them? Isn't that working? >> Thank you. >> And you're employed here at BJ's, correct? >> Yes. >> About how long have you been working here? >> Almost two years. >> Okay. And what is your position that you primarily done here? >> Um, I do cashing and then I also do subchuck out. >> Okay. >> Shortly after, officers begin questioning her about the theft and why she did it. >> Subch checkout. It's just like um when they want to do their calls, we haven't heard anything. >> What are your responsibilities with that? >> Um just customers headed over to >> Okay. All right. Do you know why we're here today? >> Yes. >> Okay. Can in your own words explain to me why we're here. >> Um I'm basically going to be charged for fraud or assisting with fraud. >> Okay. Why do you feel that? Why do you think that? >> Um because I helped someone basically steal from DJs. >> Go ahead. >> Okay. Can you explain to me in greater detail how this is like how long has this been going on? Like when did this start? >> I would say it started last year around November. The guy approached me and asked me if I could input his coupons and I said okay. I didn't think it would be a reoccurring thing but it ended up being thing and personally I didn't know how to approach my manager's tax for help to >> ensure this customer was selling but >> Okay. So you said back in November? >> Yeah. I mean around that time. I'm not 100% sure what date. >> Okay. 2022. >> Yes. >> And where were you at? the the the person what's his name? >> I don't even know his name. >> You don't know his name? >> No. >> What does he look like? >> Um, white male. Um, >> say around maybe his late 40s. >> Okay. >> Um, >> you should I Where were you at in the store when you first approved something? >> Okay. And how does this happen? How does he come up to you? What? >> Well, at first like this, my coupons are not going through like I need help. Okay. So, I just did them cuz that's what I'm used to. Like if someone has a problem with the coupon, I make sure the coupon they have actual physical item and then I put input the coupon. >> Okay. >> She breaks down the process. scan the member's card, scan the items, then manually enter large coupon amounts using her override access. >> With this instance, >> that the first one back in November, >> um, I just inputed his coupons and made sure he had the correct items and he just told me the prices of what how many coupons he had. >> Okay. So, he told you the prices? >> Yes. >> So, what type of coupons were like were they paper coupons you were scanning in or how did you do it? Um well for self check out when we do over um like physical overrides anything over $10 we have to like make sure that they have the coupon and we scan our override card and put it in. >> Okay. And how many coupons is the person allowed to use? >> I mean I I was told they can use as long as they have the physical item and the amount. >> Okay. So as long as they have the item they can use how many coupons per item? Yes, it's one item per It's one coupon per item. >> Okay. And so what? So he would just tell you how many to put in? >> You tell me like how much to put in like $90, $50. >> Okay. And did you verify that all the product was there and he had each coupon for each product? >> I would just I would look just for the c the product and the coupon. I didn't see how many coupons it was given. >> You didn't verify? >> No. >> Okay. Did you know like that what you were doing was >> I didn't I just didn't know how to approach it. >> Okay. Did So, how did he know when you were working to come in? >> He would sometimes he would walk in the front door and sometimes I'd be at the front door. So, then he would wait until I was back at my uh by where I was. If not, then he would be waiting by the bathroom. >> Okay. Did he ever ask you for your schedule to know what days of the weeks you were here? >> No. >> Okay. Did you ever communicate with him outside of here? >> No. >> I didn't know who he is to be honest with you. >> Okay. He never got curious and looked him up in your membership. >> You never looked at his membership card to see who he was? >> She admits she never checked how many coupons the member actually had and confirms that each transaction was intentionally manipulated. >> How many times do you think you've done this? Like how often does this occur? >> Um I mean when I'm working it's like at least two or three times. >> Two or three times >> a day. >> A day. >> When I'm working. >> So he'll come in three times a day. >> Yeah. So I'm at like different separate times. >> Okay. And what does he say to you when you're doing this? >> He just says, "Hello, I'm ready for my coupon." So >> Okay. And he's never once like offered you anything in exchange. No. Never did he ever give you any type of gift in exchange saying, "Hey, thanks for always helping me out." Did he ever? I mean, I'm trying to understand like how much how did he like know that she would be willing to do this each and every time? I guess I just never really questioned him about it. So, I just he always just came up to me. >> And what kind of products is he buying? >> Medicine, like medical, like like allergy medicine, anything like that. >> And is it always the same type of products? >> Yes. >> Does he say what he's doing with these products? >> I think he resells them. >> I'm pretty sure he does. >> What makes you think that? Um, I mean sometimes he when I'm on a register he does tax exempt and sometimes tax exempt they resell the product that they buy here. Okay. >> If not it's for his own personal use for like his store or something like that. >> Okay. And tax exempt. What does he do to do tax exempt? >> Um, it's just that he doesn't have to pay tax on stuff that he buys. >> But does he show you something to do that? >> No, it's already on his card. >> Okay. For his membership card? >> Yeah, his membership card. >> Okay. And what do you have to do to get a tax exempt? I I override it. I have to override the text. >> And do you override it? >> Yes, sometimes, but not all the time. >> Okay. But he shows you on his card that he's text. >> Well, when you scan it, it will show you that. >> Okay. >> The cashier says she felt uneasy about it, but went along because the member kept coming back and told her exactly what amounts to enter. >> What causes that to pop up is what I'm trying to understand is how is it entered in the system that he >> Yes. In his system underneath his membership, there's like a certain certificate that they have to bring in that they have to put in for him to have tax. >> Okay. Did he ever tell you he was reselling this stuff? >> Not that I know of. No. >> You don't recall him telling you what he did with the products? >> No. >> And what did you think when he was coming in two, three times a day? >> I just that's what I thought like he was reselling. So I was like, "Okay." Cuz I've seen I see people here multiple times a day all the time. And >> do you know like he never asked you what days you work? >> No. >> Okay. >> But I have literally like a consistent schedule. So I'm here. >> You work the same days each week. Okay. And what days are those? >> Saturday. Saturday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. >> Okay. >> I mean Sunday. Sunday, Tuesday. I'm off Saturday. >> Okay. So, walk me through exactly what took place today. >> Today? Yeah, this morning. >> Um, I mean, he came in, I know he went to membership to return something and then maybe 20 minutes later he came back on my line and I just did what I do. >> Okay. >> Step by step like I don't understand any of it. >> He um I scan his card and then I scan all of his items and then when I'm done with that, he just tells me the prices of his coupons that he has and then I input them. >> Okay. So, you don't verify that the amount he's telling you matches what the product is. >> Okay. And so how much was his total today? [Music] >> Like $40. >> Okay. But how much was it before the override key box? >> Thousand something. >> Okay. Did that seem a little bit? >> It does. Yes. >> Okay. I mean, did you realize it was wrong? >> Yes. >> Okay. She admits to the fraud, saying it became a routine she didn't know how to break. >> Does he know what's wrong? Has he ever said anything to you about it? >> He's never made any acknowledgement about it. >> Okay. >> And so you say the amounts he does, is it usually around $1,000 or does it vary or how? >> Yeah, it's around a,00,00. >> Okay. So, if he comes in three times a day, it's each time it's around $1,000. Okay. Do you know where he's getting the coupons? >> I mean, the coupons that he has are mostly BJ's coupons from like the coupon books. >> Okay. And what does that mean if they're BJ's coupons? >> Like, it's from the corporation. The corporation like gives out the coupons. >> Okay. All right. And can it can you use that many coupons? >> Um, when you scan them, no. If you if you scan them, it will limit to you to like how many items you have. Like if he has three items and he tries to scan four coupons, then that fourth coupon will >> Okay. And what happens then? So say >> she goes on to describe how the member orchestrated the scam and how the two of them discreetly worked together to pull it off. >> What do you have to do to make if you wanted to input that? >> I have to um just put it in manually. >> And how do you do that? Um, if he's on selfch checkout, then I just go all the way to the end and I scan it as I scan my override card >> and then I put in the price and then >> it'll come off as a coupon. >> Okay. And so like today when you do you did an override, correct? >> And the amount you put in, he told you the amount to put in. >> Okay. >> All right. Um, [Music] >> but I know you said when you told him that you were just scared, you didn't know what to do. He never threatened you or anything. You just >> I just felt uncomfortable. >> You felt uncomfortable. But when he came to your register, you pretty much know what you were going to do. >> Yeah, cuz it's just like a routine. >> It's routine. Okay. today when you were he was at your register and he's passing you the the coupons. Were you just putting the numbers in this time? >> Even though she knew it was wrong, she chose to stay quiet and kept stealing from the company. >> You today though, right? Like you just knew what how much to take off of the >> No, he tells him the like how many like he'll tell me like $90. >> So what is he doing today on the video? He's >> Yeah, like the stacks of >> And then what is he saying? Right. Yes. >> Tell me tell me how he does. >> Yeah, that's what he does. He just sacks them and he goes 904 or whatever. >> And what were the coupons for? Like a dollar off. >> Yeah. A dollar. Sometimes they're $7, $8. >> Okay. >> But he was telling you today what to put in. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> And does he tell you every time what to put in? >> Yes. >> Do you take the collect the coupons? >> Yeah. Um, I mean when at checkout, they throw them in the box and then if it's at um a register and put them in the pouch. >> Okay. >> Have you ever told anybody about this? Like a friend, family, any coworker about it? >> No. And what does the policy say for something like this here? >> Like is there a policy about the coupons and the putting manufacturing what you can and cannot do? I mean, all is I know is it's just one item. I mean, one >> and so >> the reason to continue doing it or that you kept doing it since November, what was that? I don't understand. >> I didn't really have a reason. It's just I didn't know how to approach my managers about it. >> Okay. Like even if you saw him coming to the register, would you not >> I mean sometimes when he would come in, I would try to make myself busy so I wouldn't have to help him. >> Okay. >> And what what did you think was going to happen if you went to >> I would get fired and this job for >> when asked if she had ever told anyone about the theft. This was her response. >> Can I ask you one more question? Honestly, truthfully, since we already know you've been doing it with this guy, have you done it with anybody else? Family, friends, >> co-workers. No. Do you know if anybody else has been doing this? Not that I know. Cuz I'm trying to understand how you came up how like how you came up with doing this so many at a time. I don't know if you saw someone else doing it or you just did it. I just did it. >> Okay. Did did he indicate to you to do this? Did he tell you how to do this? Did he have an idea that you could do this? >> No, it's like when you when you work selfch checkckout, you know what to do for certain things for like coupons like you know you have to override it. So you have to have your card to do it. >> Okay. So the very first time you met him he approached you and asked you to help him with his coupons. >> Did he go into detail about that? What that meant? So you just automatically >> started giving him the discounts. >> Mhm. >> Okay. >> All right. >> Did you ever think that this would come back? >> Yeah. I knew it was going to come back eventually, but >> we still couldn't say no. >> Well, what made you say yes the first time? What made you do it the first time? Um, the first time I thought he was just a regular customer that he just needed help with coupons, that's all. >> But why give him the extra the first time? >> If you did the overrides on the first transaction, the first time you did it, where you gave him, did he tell you the amounts the first time? >> Yes. He always tells me that. >> Okay. So, how did he know you would do that? Honestly, I mean, what made you do it? I mean, if you didn't, that's the very first time. There's no I mean, you could have easily said no. What made you do that? What made you feel the need to do that? >> Officers try to understand what led her to do it the first time and why she continued the scam for months. >> Um, maybe just to get him out. That was probably like a busy day and I just wanted everyone to be out. >> Think that's all that I have. Um, raise your right hand swear. Affirm that everything is true. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Yep. Sir. >> Oh, yeah. >> I just will need a second set. Just to stand up for me. >> Do you have a set? >> I put them on. >> I'm going to pat you down. Do you have anything that's going to poke or stick me? >> No. No. I mean, other than this, probably my card. >> Nothing on you that you shouldn't have. >> No, just my phone and my AirPods. Okay. Um, I have my keys downstairs. >> Where are they? >> They're on They're on register side. >> Okay. I'm sure we'll get your house key and stuff. >> Yeah, my car keys. My car. >> Can you just turn around for me? >> Yep. >> What we'll do is we'll get all your property. >> At the end of the interview, she's arrested and later charged with grand theft and fraud. She avoids jail time, but is sentenced to 3 years of probation and must repay the stolen amount. Number one, manager accused of embezzling $30,000 from employer. A general manager at Staples is caught in a $30,000 internal theft scheme involving missing cash deposits. Here's what happens when police are called to intervene. >> So, I get notification from our bank. >> Mhm. >> And it goes through another person who works in corporate says, "Hey, we get three deposits. Outstanding." >> Mhm. >> And it's from uh it starts at the end of February. So, I'm like two weeks behind on this notification. All right. >> Mhm. >> I request to the store to this GM, send me your Garter log that shows their sign for it. Garter comes, picks them up once a week. >> And then our weekly deposit log. So, he sends that to me and they look fine. Look like they're picked up and gone. So, I'm thinking, "Oh, it's not our fault. Must be the Garta. >> They have a camera system." So, I have to verify and confirm, right? >> So, I'm watching it and in any given week, you got seven business days. Carter comes once a week. So he get seven business days. So they should pick up a minimum of of seven bags. >> So guard comes in. They're supposed to pick up seven bags. He scans six. It's clears a day in the video. Camera right in there right over top. You scanned. He has to enter them up. Does it six times. So he leaves with six. We have paperwork that shows he scans six, not seven. So we have one missing just in that example for $920. >> Mhm. >> So the suspect here is that GM. And um is and how long has has that been going on off? >> Yeah, it started the first deposit missing is the date um what is it? 229. >> 229 and it's been going every week since. >> Yes. Well, it escalated obviously. Yeah. So >> So in the beginning it was one bag. >> Yeah. >> And then how how did it started one bag? Uh well it was sales date 226. That was the first one sales date. So, we have 11 bags missing and that's the total loss we have right now. >> Okay. >> And everything that's occurred after this, he went on LOA shortly after this cuz I started sticking my nose into it. Hey, send me the logs. Send me this. He knew he was in big trouble. >> Staple safe isn't secured properly, though. It's supposed to require twoerson verification and a dual key system. It turns out deposits can be accessed with a simple handle pull. I started inquiring about 3:20 3:21 >> and it stopped >> and it completely Well, he left. Yeah. And he left and >> What date did he leave? >> Uh his last day worked I think was 3:29. >> 329. But nothing happened from 329. >> We're clean. Deposits picked up in the bank. >> The only person Let me show you the safe so you get a little grasp here. >> I wish I could open it for you. Got a proper so I have to get lots of this out. So here's the safe. Mhm. >> This is where the deposits were kept. >> And >> this where the deposits I'm sorry. >> Yeah. >> Where? That's where they are. >> Yep. Okay. >> That's where they are. This is just your safe funds. This is where they keep all the money throughout the day where they get changed. So they never have to go in there. It's a separate separate deal. >> So at the end of the day, they get this >> count it and then put it in there. >> Nope. Nope. Nope. Nope. The safe fund is what you operate your business with. It's like what you put in the drawers and then you need change throughout the day. That's that's what that is. the deposits are at the end of the night. Like tonight when he comes in, he's going to pull all the drawers and then, you know, subtract the $100 that we start the bank with, you know, the drawer and then the rest of it's our profit the he seals it in the bag and they put it in there. >> There's a process for that. Got it. >> It's a twoperson process. Um >> so, but this was not this was not secured like this and it's not supposed it's supposed to work like that where Garter comes in, puts in a second key. Well, I found out, you know, obviously after the fact that you just pull up the handle and the deposits were accessible. >> So, it wasn't secure. >> It wasn't secure. >> Was this door secure? >> Oh, yeah. That door is always closed. >> Okay. So, only people who have access to this door will have access to that. >> Yep. Yep. Key entry. And there's only there's there's five people in the building that held a key. So, that'd be the general manager, sales manager. >> Well, uh yeah, sales manager. Um, he went to >> investigators review access logs and footage. Only five people have keys to the cash room, but surveillance eliminates everyone except the general manager. >> So, let's see. The tech soup. They don't have a sales manager right now. So, it'd be the general manager, the tech soup, uh, Mike, the MIS, and then you've got two two print marketing soups that have a key, but you can eliminate almost all of them. Uh, one and the reason is the print marketing suits never came in here during my investigation from 226 that didn't I never even saw him come in here and they would have no need to. They probably don't want to come in here uh cuz they got enough business over there. >> The tech soup uh he closes about every night. He's here right now. I can eliminate him. >> Mhm. >> Um >> he never came in here. >> Well, no, he came in here all he closed but he had no interest in that. Meaning he would the the way the process works is um he prepares a deposit. He leaves the money here and then a second person comes in. This is our process the company. Second person comes in they verify it so he's not stealing. Right. They verify it. They put it in the bag while he's here and they seal it and the verifier throws it in there. >> Mhm. >> Okay. So it one's verifying the other and that's the process. And then they're really consistent on it about 90% of the time. I did see a couple days where the uh the person didn't come in and verify and he verified his own deposit. >> So, I already chewed him out for that. But um cuz the penalty you you know >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Especially if there's money missing from it. Who do you think I'm going to talk to? >> Uh anyway, >> so the thing about Dwayne, he's he's in here a lot, but the videos the camera's right there and it shows what he's doing. He's preparing deposit here. He doesn't go down there until he throws a deposit in. And Dwayne is the person that you're most suspicious of. >> No, Dwayne is he's clear. >> He's he's the tech suit. The guy I'm suspicious of it's so obvious. I'll show you a clip. >> Okay. >> The GM he's got a there's no question about this. Everybody I mean I talk to the the key holders. I go, "Anything different going on?" That's another story. That's He says he's in the hospital. He's in rehab. He's seen removing bags and placing them inside a lost and found envelope before walking out >> here because there's so much time in this room. >> You could go six, seven hours in a day while we're open for business. No one comes in here. Door closed, >> right? >> So for me to for us to have to watch video for that would be >> Yeah. They skip forward until somebody's in here. >> Yeah. But you don't know. But the way it's set up, it's motion activated. So as soon as that door comes open, the the video backs up maybe 2 seconds. Mhm. >> And then it it it starts recording. >> Okay. >> And then you see the door open, you see the people come in. So what I saw >> was the GM coming in >> uh going into that deposit. >> So when he's here bending down, digging around into the deposit, uh from that angle, it's really difficult to see exactly what's going on. It's not like stealing from a register and you got the camera, >> but you don't see him put it in the pocket. >> No, it's not that obvious. What he does is he uses this prop right there. He used that once. This is this is lost and found stuff that shouldn't have been down there. But this envelope was in there and he's has no reason to really go in there unless a customer says, "Hey, I left my passport here and there's one in there." But this is so out of policy, it's not even funny. It's not how we handle it. But anyway, that bag was down there and that's one of the things he messed with. And he would be down in there with the deposits >> and all of a sudden he walks out here and goes into his office with that bag and then comes back and puts it in. So, >> oh, so he takes that back with him. >> Yeah. Takes it into his office there. >> This does this have cameras? >> That's the It's the manager's office. Yeah, the camera's there. >> But does that camera see anything? >> No. No, there's no camera in there. >> Oh, there. [Music] >> What's your name, sir? >> Anthony. >> Anthony, you're under arrest. You have you have an arrest warrant. Okay. >> For what, sir? I just >> Is there any guns in here? >> No, sir. >> Okay. Just stay right where you're at. You're under arrest for felony charges out of the city of West Palm Beach >> and referenced in fraudulent. Nope. That was for that was for Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office. >> Yes. So charges city of West Palm Beach. Come on out. >> Come on out. >> After gathering enough evidence, the officers move forward with the arrest. >> Come on out. Put your hands on top of the car. Fresh charges for you. >> They're new. They're new. >> You You got arrested on the 12th, >> right? >> For Palm Beach County. That was for schemes of defraud and using other people's property, things like that. This is for something completely different. >> City of West Palm Beach or just >> City of West Palm Beach. >> All right. So, would you rather take this take this off and I'll cuff you? >> Oh my gosh. >> I know it's dude, but this is this is what it is, brother. >> Yeah, I guess I understand that. All right. >> You got you got some keys on you. >> Yeah, I have. Can I get my phone? >> I'll get your phone. I will get your phone. You want to take this off? >> Anything? >> Yeah. >> It'd just be easier, more comfortable if you want to take that off. It's fraud stuff. It's nothing violent. You're not, you know, it you're not. >> I think he probably wants to. I I'd give it a shot. It's probably worth talking to him about. >> Um, so I'm recording. Um, I'm the detective assigned to this investigation. Okay. Uh, you understand that you're obviously under arrest, that you have the right right to remain silent. um that anything you say may and will be used against you in a court of law. Do you understand that? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. So, before we get started though, um right now it's the time for me to ask you questions and for you to answer whatever you want to answer. Okay. Uh the allegations are that were you an employee of Staples? >> Yeah, I work for Staples. >> Okay. Um how long do you work for Staples? I worked for Staples. I started with them in New York um in uh I say it's like April 2023. >> Since April 2023, how long have you worked at the Staples here? >> In this Staples here, I came um I think it was in around a August 2023 somewhere in there. Okay. >> August. Between August and >> In a follow-up interview with detectives, he claims the entire thing is a misunderstanding. >> Okay. So, you started around August or September. >> Yeah. Okay. >> That date had moved around a couple of times. It was initially supposed to be October, but it was earlier. >> Okay. What's your title? >> I was the general manager for this location here. >> Are you still in >> pro market? Um, no. Uh, at Well, at this time, I was on a extended medical leave. I very ill. Um okay my doctor took me out of work uh that you know was you know uh probably 3 months I've been out I have not returned and I wasn't um you know due to uh the job in just the c you know the conditions of what was going on at you know was a big contributor to what made me sick. I you know my physician had recommended that I find a different job like >> what was it about the job that you don't have to tell me about your physical ailments but what was it about the job that will make you physically heal >> so um just uh very um strenuous uh shifts there was a lot the company went through some very major um realignments and shifts changes to their operation structures and personnel structures upon going there and we we started getting bombarded with um very high level um visits from corporate from all over the country um you know from the investment group and with that leading up to it it would be fire drills to just prepare make preparations clean store get all things just perfect and I mean working open to close for days weeks at a time for that and then there would be the visits and then there would be a long list of uh initiatives and and to get obviously executed after the visit per their instructions. That would happen probably, you know, at one point three or four times a month. >> He talks about how stressful the job was and says he came in on his days off to help manage the store, but he denies ever taking money. you know, my dis the district um and company did a whole realignment to where we had a new district manager, new divisional leader and it was very aggressive and this uh particular location and area and the surrounding stores hadn't gone through the transition. I'm just trying to set the >> So, so you have a stressful job. I have a stressful job. People have stressful jobs. Do you have any idea? And and just this is the time where you can help yourself, >> right? >> Is you have any idea why a detective will be talking to you right now? And before you answer, please please. >> Mhm. >> Do you have any idea why I will be here talking to you specific to Staples? >> No sir. No. >> So if if Staples management uh how many managers did you have under you at Staples? Uh so my direct reports my >> how many people had access and a key >> to the cash room at Staples? >> I would say other than myself there were I think four >> four other people. Okay. I mean, and that's just during that time, mind you, like I was telling you before, there were many visits with many managers at different levels, you know, whether they're regional, divisional, in and out of that store very frequently. >> Okay. The allegations is that there's money missing and just before you answer, >> I've been working this case now for quite some time, right? Okay. Mhm. >> So the allegations would you know whe there will be any allegations that there will be money missing from the cash room of Staples? >> I can tell you what I am privy to regarding um the discre discrepancies because I was involved with investigating them um probably I don't remember how long before I went out sick. Despite multiple chances to explain, the GM sticks to his story. >> I remember we provided all the information and the the uh you know the uh armored carrier uh logs and you know just everything that went along with that and at that point um you know that's as far as I was um involved with that. Now with that, I know that was um as a result to it being reported and through the system that they um hadn't received um uh deposits that were >> Did you ever did you ever take any money from Staples >> in before you answer that I've been dealing with this for now a few months. >> Did you ever take any cash deposits from Staples? I did not take any cash deposits from Staples. >> Anybody else take cash deposits from Staples? >> Not to my knowledge. Not that I've seen or I'm aware of. I can I can tell you. Um, >> have you ever come to Staples in a day or time that you were not supposed to be working at Staples? >> Sir, I I would come to Staples uh off my schedule at different times all the time. And as related to what I was just explaining to you, um I would come there as needed as uh you know >> so if there's video of you >> walking out of that cash room >> with cash deposits. >> The detective presents video evidence, but he sticks to his story and denies any wrongdoing. I'm saying that that's not what it I did not take any cash deposits out of Staples now and I was I had explained over the phone dealing with uh the loss prevention um Ted and other and and you know as far as you know some of the concerns that I had regarding the safekeeping regarding you know the the process because they were on process and I was doing my best to get things on process to avoid the types of issues and the discrepancies that we were going through at that time. >> And what would be that what what would be one thing that you did to accommodate that? >> So in that um one of the main things is that in that particular safe um there is uh an internal safe as well like so when you open the main safe there's another one >> and it's connected to a chute and the chute goes down just like every other retail. I've been doing retail a very long time and that's how it's supposed to be managed. So that way once it's dropped, it's secured until the armored car person comes and picks it up with their key um and you you know and you have a second key. Well, what they were doing here is just uh preparing the cash and then putting it um in the safe, you know, putting it um at in the bottom, which wasn't locked. Um they wouldn't lock it. it would be just set on day lock all the time. The one time I actually locked it, they had a connection because they couldn't open it. They didn't have the key. So, I found the key for them, purchased the safe, and another issue is that they were keeping all of the lost and found, which this place had collected a lot of lost and found. I'm talking, you know, birth certificates, IDs, you know, just sentimental documents, everything from the copy center, flash drives, it was exploding out of the same um section that they were putting, you know, stacking their cash. >> He claims he was simply trying to clean up the store's disorganized process, not steal from it. So I was working very hard to consolidate that lost and found to try to reach out to the people who who I felt like if maybe their marriage certificate or certificate to try to get it back to them, you know, because a lot of these are customers that I was recognizing. I was starting to, you know, they're they're regulars. They didn't even know they call about documents. >> So you're saying that there was excessive amount of liability with the lost confound. >> Mhm. >> And you're saying that there was a kind of a mess. That's my word. It's a big mess >> between uh the cash and that >> for years. I mean, you these things were in 2013. >> But then you decide to merge the cash with the lost and found. >> No, no, no. It was already done. It was already >> That's not what I was told. Here's what the allegations are. >> That's not true at all. That is not true at all. >> Listen, you keep checking and go back. I I swear to you if you continue digging in the investigation for that fact of how they were managing lost and found and you'll see from before long before I got there they were using that bottom uh c cabinet as the lost and found with no um additional like separation between you know that stuff and the uh the deposit. Uh, but I one thing I did was made them put all of the lost and found into like a consolidated bag that said lost and found on it, you know, and make them uh try to upkeep the lost and found ledger as as frequently as possible, you know, or as least consistently. But there that I there's I did not merge that those two things together. I was trying to break them apart and to get rid of eliminate the lost and found and then going forward instead of automatically putting something that was found in there and forgetting about it, make an effort to contact to look up, identify the person and reach out and let them know. >> He keeps defending himself, fully convinced he's done nothing to warrant the situation he's in. It's been hard enough like what's been going on. We see I was working open to close for for months on end since I started there. No days off and my family is out here. We haven't we were we weren't even able to settle into a permanent home yet. I have seven kids. My wife we we weren't even able supposed to be like that for this long. But I've been obligated to be here which I've done in good faith. did my job, did everything I was asked, gone to other locations to help. >> Do you want to be truthful today or am I just going to listen to you talk >> and I'm just a straight shooter? >> Like truthful. >> So, so here's the in regards to money that is missing from the safe and you on video several times, at least four that I counted that I saw >> where there's discrepancies in the cash. You walk into the vault, you remove the cash deposits and you hide them whether it's underneath a folder or underneath something else. So, do you want to talk about the truth or do you want to because the truth will set you free. I'm a reasonable person and when there's no victim, there's no crime, Anthony. So, if Staple decides not to be a victim any longer, you're not going to see Detective Palasios anymore. But if I'm going to sit here and I'm going to have to accept you lying to me, I think that's a little bit unfair. I think that's disrespectful and we'll just we'll just leave it at that and you stick to your story. If you want to be truthful and say, "Okay, listen, detective, we have been going through some tough times and I went through this and I was against the wall because I will probably do the same thing, Anthony, if I have to feed my family. But please don't lie to me after I've been looking at this for months now because we're at the end of July and this is back from February and March I believe it was and there's several deposits that are missing and I don't know if you knew >> but despite his insistence the detective hits him with a cold hard truth >> the truth is documented so I'm not making it up >> understood. So, and there's videos where where it's it's on a sensory basis that when it censor somebody in the room, it goes off and it starts recording. >> I've reviewed those videos. I reviewed the consistency and I saw you grab deposits from underneath the safe, the safe that you're explaining. I saw you logging in on the clipboard, whatever you were logging. I saw you pull out certain things. I've already gone through that. Okay. I'm trying to understand why you did it so that I can pass along the information and you can potentially honestly help yourself. I'm not a judge. I'm not a jury. I just collect information. I review information and I'm I'm pretty decent at it. I'm not going to say I'm the best. I'm also very reasonable and I will share whatever message you have for me to share with Staples and management. But just please understand that this is this is a decent time for us to talk about the truth so that you can potentially help yourself by moving on out of this so that you can take care of your seven kids and your wife. Sir, and I I very much respect that and I respect you and your and your time too, >> but I this is clearly a big misunderstanding. Um, a big big misunderstanding and I am not going to say that I've taken something that I haven't taken. >> Ultimately, he's charged with grand theft. Lesson learned. No matter what ship you're on, the truth has a way of clocking in. Drop your thoughts in the comments.