Charlotte, N.C., February 3, 2026
In Charlotte, a targeted blitz operation by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department aimed at combating retail theft has resulted in multiple arrests, including the seizure of firearms and drugs. This operation, which involved collaboration with loss prevention teams from major stores such as TJ Maxx and Burlington, highlights the city’s ongoing efforts to tackle organized retail crime. The initiative aims to bolster community safety and curb illegal activities that threaten the economic health of the retail sector.
Charlotte Police Conduct Retail Theft Blitz Operation, Leading to Arrests and Seizures
Charlotte, N.C. – A focused blitz operation in Charlotte targeting retail theft at major stores like TJ Maxx and Burlington has led to the arrest of multiple individuals, the seizure of firearms, and the discovery of drugs. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) announced these results on February 2, 2026, following a coordinated effort to combat organized retail crime within the city.
Details of the Operation and Arrests
The operation involved a strategic partnership between the CMPD’s Organized Retail Crime detectives, Westover Division officers, and loss prevention personnel from both Burlington and TJ Maxx. This collaborative approach aimed to address localized theft and associated violence, which have been ongoing concerns for businesses and the wider community. Authorities initiated the sting by observing suspects as they exited a store with stolen merchandise.
Upon stopping two suspects seen leaving a store with stolen items, officers expanded their investigation. A subsequent search of the suspects’ vehicle revealed more than just the stolen goods. Law enforcement personnel discovered approximately 11 grams of suspected marijuana and two firearms during this search. The operation resulted in charges against all four individuals involved.
Specific individuals charged during the operation include Deontae Blair Eddings, 23, and Kamron Diontay Thomas, 21, who both received misdemeanor larceny citations. Thomas also faces an additional charge for carrying a concealed weapon. Furthermore, Ka’maya Aquilla Wynn, 20, was cited for possession of marijuana, while Demariye Deshaun Jones, 21, also received a citation for carrying a concealed weapon. The incident report outlining these charges is identified as 20260122-1450-01.
Combating Organized Retail Crime
The recent blitz operation underscores the CMPD’s proactive and comprehensive strategy to address retail crime in Charlotte. Organized retail crime is a significant issue that not only impacts businesses through financial losses but can also foster an environment where other criminal activities, including violence and drug offenses, can proliferate. Such operations are critical for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of shoppers and employees alike. The department’s continued partnership with local businesses, including their loss prevention teams, is a key component of this strategy.
The objective of these collaborative efforts extends beyond making arrests; it aims to bolster overall community safety and preemptively reduce illegal activities that can undermine the economic vitality of the retail sector. By actively targeting retail theft, law enforcement agencies strive to disrupt criminal networks and deter future offenses, thereby creating a more secure environment for residents and visitors to Charlotte.
This coordinated enforcement action serves as a clear indication of ongoing efforts to make Charlotte’s retail environments safer and to send a message that illegal activities, particularly those associated with organized retail theft, will be met with decisive police action. The presence of firearms and drugs in connection with these theft operations highlights the often-broader criminal elements involved and the importance of police intervention to mitigate these risks to public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What happened in Charlotte recently?
- The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) conducted a blitz operation targeting retail theft at TJ Maxx and Burlington stores, which led to multiple arrests, the seizure of firearms, and the discovery of drugs.
- When did this operation take place?
- The results of this operation were announced on February 2, 2026.
- Which stores were involved in the operation?
- The operation involved loss prevention personnel from Burlington and TJ Maxx stores in Charlotte.
- Which law enforcement agencies participated?
- The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), including its Organized Retail Crime detectives and Westover Division officers, collaborated in the operation.
- What was seized during the operation?
- During a search of a suspect vehicle, approximately 11 grams of suspected marijuana and two firearms were discovered and seized.
- How many individuals were arrested and what were some of the charges?
- Multiple individuals were arrested. Deontae Blair Eddings, 23, and Kamron Diontay Thomas, 21, received misdemeanor larceny citations. Thomas was also charged with carrying a concealed weapon. Ka’maya Aquilla Wynn, 20, was cited for possession of marijuana, and Demariye Deshaun Jones, 21, was cited for carrying a concealed weapon.
- What is the purpose of such blitz operations?
- The primary goals of these operations are to tackle localized theft and violence, bolster community safety, and preemptively curb illegal activities that undermine the economic vigor of the retail sector.
Key Features of the Charlotte Retail Theft Blitz Operation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Charlotte, N.C. |
| Date of Announcement | February 2, 2026 |
| Participating Agencies | Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), Organized Retail Crime detectives, Westover Division officers, Loss Prevention (Burlington, TJ Maxx) |
| Primary Objective | Combat localized retail theft and violence, bolster community safety, curb illegal activities |
| Arrests | Multiple individuals arrested (e.g., Deontae Blair Eddings, Kamron Diontay Thomas, Ka’maya Aquilla Wynn, Demariye Deshaun Jones) |
| Seized Items | Approximately 11 grams of suspected marijuana, two firearms |
| Associated Charges (Examples) | Misdemeanor larceny, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of marijuana |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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