The New York State Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a man suspected of stealing from a grocery store in Wappingers Falls, NY. The alleged incident took place earlier this month and authorities say they are now relying on the community to help crack the case.
Incident Details: Theft at Hannaford Supermarket
According to officials, the alleged theft occurred on Tuesday, April 16 around 6:00 PM at the Hannaford Supermarket located on Route 9 in Wappingers Falls. Troopers from the local barracks responded to a report of larceny after store employees claimed a man left the premises without paying for a cart full of groceries.
Store surveillance footage captured images of the individual in question. He was seen wearing dark clothing, including a hat and hood, and appeared to be in his late 20s to 30s, with a full beard and mustache. The suspect was pushing a shopping cart containing two bags of groceries and a case of bottled water.
Quick Exit in a White Hyundai
By the time police arrived on the scene, the suspect had already fled. Witnesses told responding troopers that the man exited the parking lot in what appeared to be a white Hyundai, though the exact model and license plate were not confirmed.
Despite reviewing footage and conducting interviews with staff and potential witnesses, police have not yet identified the man. The investigation has since stalled, prompting authorities to seek help through public channels.
Images Released, Community Urged to Help
In an effort to reignite leads, photos of the suspect were shared across social media platforms over the weekend. These images, taken from store surveillance, clearly show the man during his time inside the grocery store and as he exited with the cart.
The hope is that someone in the Hudson Valley community will recognize the man and provide information that could lead to his identification and arrest.
How You Can Help
If you have any information about the individual or the incident, New York State Police urge you to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling the New York State Police at (845) 677-7300.
Make sure to reference case number NY2500337631 when calling.
Shoplifting in the Hudson Valley: A Growing Concern
While this incident might seem isolated, it’s part of a larger trend of retail theft affecting many areas throughout the Hudson Valley. Store owners and managers are increasingly investing in surveillance systems and additional security to deter incidents like this. Still, quick getaways and lack of identification make catching suspects a challenge.
Police often rely on the power of community awareness and shared vigilance to help solve these cases—especially when leads run dry and surveillance images are the only clue left behind.
What Happens Next?
If the suspect is identified and apprehended, he could face charges of petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor in New York, which can carry penalties including fines, community service, or up to one year in jail. Until then, police continue to investigate and follow up on any tips submitted.
Stay Aware, Stay Informed
Authorities encourage residents to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods and remain alert when shopping or commuting. Situations like this underscore how public cooperation can play a vital role in solving local crimes.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
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