CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Thieves have stolen dozens of purses from TJ Maxx stores around the Queen City. Now police are investigating whether four crimes this month are connected.
The TJ Maxx on South Boulevard was targeted twice with more than 20 purses stolen.
“That’s terrible, even if you’re not a T.J. Maxx shopper as I am, I would be concerned about people stealing, that’s just not right,” said Kim Newman.
A total of 47 purses have been stolen in four separate cases this month. On April 3, the South Tryon T.J. Maxx was targeted. On April 12, the Ikea Boulevard location was hit. T.J. Maxx on South Boulevard was hit twice in the past week.
“I think it’s really sad since they are already really affordable prices; why are you going to steal from here?” said one shopper.
However, the price tag is adding up. The total cost for each crime ranges from $1,300 to more than $1,900.
“The cost of shoplifting is passed along to consumers, so next time you go into a store you may have to pay more for the same item,” said Newman.
Police are investigating whether the cases are connected. Meanwhile, shoppers said they’ll be taking a proactive approach.
“If you see anything, say something,” says Newman.
“If I saw it, of course, you can’t just sit back and let it happen,” said one shopper.
So far, there have been no arrests in the case.
T.J. Maxx sent the following statement:
We are aware of these incidents and are cooperating fully with law enforcement. As this is a police matter, it would be inappropriate to comment further.