The Multi-County Grand Jury indicted two individuals on March 12 in connection with a retail theft scheme that targeted Walmart stores across multiple states.
The case is significant because it highlights the impact of organized retail theft on businesses and consumers. According to the indictment, Angel Jones and Christopher Loepke are accused of conducting a coordinated operation over six months, resulting in more than $55,000 in losses from Walmart Supercenter stores in 15 states. The indictment alleges that the suspects used Walmart’s Scan & Go mobile checkout system to fraudulently obtain merchandise by scanning lower-priced items or hiding higher-priced goods inside other products.
“These types of organized retail theft schemes harm businesses and ultimately drive up costs for hardworking Oklahoma consumers,” said Attorney General Gentner Drummond. “My office will continue working with law enforcement and retailers to identify offenders and hold them accountable under the law.”
Charges against Jones and Loepke stem from incidents at several Walmart locations throughout Oklahoma, with thefts reported in at least 13 counties. Both individuals face three felony counts each. Every person arrested or charged is presumed innocent unless and until convicted in a court of law.
The Oklahoma Attorney General focuses on combating crime, ensuring government transparency, strengthening tribal relations, and upholding the rule of law, according to the official biography. Gentner Drummond leads the office with extensive legal experience according to his official biography. The office also advocates for policies supporting the energy sector, educational safeguards, and tougher laws on crimes such as rape and drug distribution according to its official biography.
Additionally, the Attorney General collaborates with state and federal partners to address organized crime according to its official biography, operates within public legal and governmental services according to its official biography, and maintains operations based in Oklahoma as noted in leadership background.
