Authorities in Southwest Florida have arrested a Cape Coral resident following accusations of carrying out a retail theft operation at a local Target store.
The incident has raised concerns about repeat theft cases in the area, especially as the woman was already wanted on multiple felony warrants.
Reported Theft at Target
Store Employee Alerts Police
Cape Coral Police officers were called to a Target location on November 25 after staff reported suspicious activity.
According to the employee, 38-year-old Melissa Ann Chase entered the store and selected several items, including strawberries, beef hide chews, and bacteria gel.
Barcode Switching Accusation
Investigators said Chase removed a barcode from a $0.99 product and applied it to the items she intended to buy.
By scanning the cheaper barcode, she paid only $2.97 for merchandise valued at $44.47, resulting in a significant undercharge.
Arrest and Criminal Background
Taken Into Custody at Her Home
Officers located Chase as she was leaving her residence and placed her under arrest without incident.
Multiple Active Warrants
A records search revealed that Chase had six active felony warrants, all connected to prior burglary and theft cases.
Charges Filed Against the Suspect
Chase now faces a long list of charges, including:
- Theft of merchandise with previous theft convictions
- Burglary of a dwelling
- Dealing in stolen property
- Grand theft of $750 or more
- Several counts of petit theft
These charges reflect both the new allegations and her earlier unresolved cases.
The arrest of Melissa Ann Chase highlights ongoing concerns about retail theft and repeat offenders in Cape Coral. With multiple felony warrants already issued prior to this incident, the latest charges may lead to significant legal consequences. Local authorities continue to investigate as they work to address theft-related crimes affecting area businesses.
