News Summary
Brittany Gardner, a 35-year-old customer service manager at Harris Teeter, was arrested for allegedly embezzling over $11,000 from the grocery store in Charlotte. The theft, which involved approximately ten separate incidents, came to light following an investigation by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Despite her long tenure at the company, Gardner’s actions shocked both management and customers. After her arrest, she was released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court later this year.
Charlotte – Brittany Gardner, a 35-year-old customer service manager at Harris Teeter, has been arrested for allegedly embezzling over $11,000 from the grocery store located on Davis Lake Parkway in Charlotte. The embezzlement incidents are alleged to have taken place between February 9, 2024, and June 5, 2025.
Gardner was charged with larceny by an employee following an investigation by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. She reportedly admitted to taking approximately $10,000 to $11,000 in total, although she could not specify the exact amounts or dates related to the thefts. Surveillance footage played a crucial role in the case, showing Gardner counting and taking cash, as well as placing money into a safe for pick-up by Garda.
The total amount allegedly stolen by Gardner is $11,170. In a notable incident, an amount of $15,000 was sent to the bank, but only $13,000 was actually deposited, suggesting a significant discrepancy in cash handling. The investigation revealed about ten separate incidents of theft attributed to Gardner’s actions.
Following her arrest on Monday, Gardner was released the next day under a $35,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court again in August to face the charges against her. Gardner has been employed by Harris Teeter since 2009, making her actions particularly shocking to both management and customers.
Background Context
The Harris Teeter store in question has faced challenges beyond financial misconduct. Earlier this year, the grocery store suffered damage from a fire that police suspect may have been intentionally set. This sequence of events has raised concerns regarding the store’s security and management practices.
Employee theft has been a persistent issue across various retail establishments, with losses from such activities costing businesses millions annually. The investigation into Gardner’s case highlights the vulnerabilities that can exist within retail environments, especially when it comes to cash handling and oversight.
As the investigation continues, store management and the local community are left to process the implications of Gardner’s alleged actions and the previous incidents that have impacted the store. The Harris Teeter management is expected to review their internal policies and security measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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Additional Resources
- WBTV: Harris Teeter Manager Arrested for Embezzlement
- Hoodline: Employee Accused of Embezzling Over $11,000
- QC News: Sales Tax Embezzlement at Beer Shop
- WBTV Video: Harris Teeter Embezzlement Case
- Wikipedia: Employee Theft
Author: HERE Charlotte
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