FLORIDA — Authorities in Martin County say a coordinated retail theft operation unfolded late Tuesday night after two Jacksonville women were allegedly caught stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of baby formula during a multi-store shoplifting spree. Investigators say the case underscores a growing problem involving organized retail theft and the targeting of high-demand essentials.
How the Investigation Began in Stuart
According to law enforcement officials, the investigation began in Stuart when store employees reported two women leaving a retail location without paying for merchandise. The incident raised immediate concern due to the volume of items taken and the manner in which the suspects exited the store. Officers quickly relayed the information to county deputies, who began monitoring nearby retail locations…