Three suspects attempted scams and thefts at several stores in northeast Michigan; police believe the incidents were part of a larger statewide crime ring.
Authorities in northeast Michigan are looking into a series of thefts targeting Family Dollar and Dollar General stores on Sunday, December 22, 2024.
The Michigan State Police (MSP) Alpena Post is actively looking for three African American men suspected of attempting cash app scams and stealing from registers throughout the region. These incidents, which occurred in Alpena, Ossineke, and Lachine, may be linked to similar crimes across the state.
Incident Overview: Scams and Theft at Multiple Locations
The incidents began around 6:15 p.m. at the Family Dollar in Ossineke, where the suspects allegedly attempted to scam the cashier with a fraudulent cash app barcode.
After failing at that location, the men went on to other Family Dollar and Dollar General locations in Alpena and Lachine. The suspects successfully gained access to a register at the Lachine Dollar General and stole an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.
Suspect Vehicle and Description
The suspects were last seen driving a gray or silver 2017–2020 Chevrolet Equinox SUV. Authorities shared surveillance images of the men and the vehicle. MSP has asked anyone with information about the suspects or the vehicle to call the Alpena Post at (989) 354-4101.
Connection to Statewide Crime Rings
According to True North Radio Network, law enforcement officials believe the incidents in northeast Michigan are part of a larger pattern of retail thefts throughout the state.
Similar schemes involving fraudulent transactions and register theft have been reported in other parts of Michigan. This is at least the second significant theft operation targeting the region in 2024.
In June, two Florida men were arrested in Alpena after stealing thousands of dollars in tools from Home Depot. The investigation revealed that the suspects had also targeted five other Home Depot locations in Michigan.
Police discovered stolen power tools in their vehicle, reinforcing concerns about organized theft rings targeting retail stores across the state.
The Challenge of Combating Retail Theft
These types of theft highlight the growing challenges that law enforcement and retailers face when dealing with organized crime operations.
These incidents not only cause financial losses for businesses, but also raise security concerns among employees and customers. Authorities emphasize the importance of public vigilance in reporting suspicious activity to assist investigations.
What’s Next in the Investigation
The MSP Alpena Post is still gathering leads and urges anyone with information about the suspects, their vehicle, or other related crimes to come forward. Investigators are also collaborating with retail chains to review security footage and identify patterns that connect these crimes to others in Michigan.
As thefts become more sophisticated and widespread, law enforcement and businesses are focusing on improved security measures and fraud detection systems to prevent future incidents.
